According to a report by VolQuest.com, Tennessee’s projected starting left tackle Drew Richmond is suspended for the season opener against Georgia Tech.

The report cited a violation of team rules.

With the redshirt sophomore Richmond out for the game, Brett Kendrick should get the start at left tackle, while Marcus Tatum should start at right tackle.

The loss of Richmond is tough to swallow, but the offense should be able to overcome. There have been rumors for a while now that suspensions were coming, but nothing has been confirmed. Butch Jones is expected to confirm the suspension publicly Wednesday.

Richmond was rated a 4-star prospect and the class of 2015’s No. 3 tackle and the state’s No. 2 overall prospect, according to 247Sports Composite Rankings. The Memphis native is expected to play a key role in the Vols’ offensive line this season.