Vols Football: Josh Smith Still Being Evaluated

Contrary to previous reports, Vols wide receiver Josh Smith is not scheduled to undergo surgery on his injured ankle, according to head coach Butch Jones.

It was first reported that Smith undergo surgery on Tuesday. Then it was reported the surgery had been moved to Thursday.

Jones said Smith is still undergoing a full examination to determine if surgery is needed to help the healing process.

Whatever the case, it’s good news for the Vols that Smith could possibly avoid surgery.

However, I still wouldn’t expect to see Smith play the rest of the season.

There’s no reason for Tennessee’ to risk Smith’s almost certain medical redshirt, for the final three games of the season.

Even if Smith was healthy enough to play, there’s no guarantee he wouldn’t re-injure his ankle.

There’s no doubt the Vols have missed Smith. And not only because the Vols are lacking depth at the wide receiver position, but because Smith had become one of Tennessee’s most reliable options at wide receiver.

Josh Smith will have a BIG role on team 119 when he returns next season. The Vols are fortunate they get him for three more seasons.