Tennessee’s lifting of the curtain on the 2015 season just got a little more interesting, at least offensively.
Thursday afternoon, head coach Butch Jones revealed that Alton “Pig” Howard has been suspended for the opener against Bowling Green. The only reason given was unspecified violations of team rules, although Jones did allow that the issue that triggered the suspension dates back several months.
The wide receiver will be eligible to return for the Week two matchup with No. 19 Oklahoma.
The past two seasons, Howard has led the Vols in receiving with 54 and 44 receptions in 2014 and 2013, respectively. He accounted for 1,006 receiving yards in that span, and has also scored a pair of rushing touchdowns.
Howard’s suspension isn’t the only situation UT is being forced to deal with at the position, either.
#Vols Jr WR Jason Croom and Fr WR Vincent Perry will have knee scopes Friday, and the length of their absences will be determined after.
— Wes Rucker (@wesrucker247) August 27, 2015
JONES: In one day, your depth at a position can go from a strength to an area you have to look at
— Tennessee Football (@Vol_Football) August 27, 2015
Croom caught 21 passes for 305 yards and four touchdowns last season, the latter total tied for second on the team. Perry was a three-star member of the 2015 recruiting class.