Josh Heupel provides update on the injury status of DL Elijah Simmons moving forward

Tennessee defensive lineman Elijah Simmons did not play in Sunday’s scrimmage as he heals from an unknown injury. With Simmons also missing a handful of practices this past week, Volunteers coach Josh Heupel provided an update on the junior’s status going forward.

“I think he’ll have an opportunity to participate this next four-day block,” Heupel said Sunday following the scrimmage. “Just kind of a freak deal and don’t think it’s a long-term injury for him that will inhibit him in any way going into the season. But we’ve got to get him back and fully ready to go.”

Simmons started the first four games of the season for Tennessee this past season, but ended up playing only seven total as he dealt with injuries. He finished the year with 11 tackles, including 1.5 for loss. Simmons figures to once again begin this season as a starter at defensive tackle, and Heupel is hopeful the injury concerns won’t linger throughout this year.

“We’ll see when he gets back,” the coach said. “He’s been in great spirits. He said he’s feeling really good. We’ll figure it out here as we get back on the grass here in a couple days.”

Tennessee lost some big names on the defensive line, making the return of Elijah Simmons from injury all the more important. The Volunteers must replace the production of starters Matthew Butler and Ja’Quain Blakely, who combined for 76 tackles and 6.5 sacks this past season. Thankfully, Simmons won’t be alone as the Volunteers also return key contributors Tyler Baron, Byron Young and Omari Thomas.

Simmons has a little more than two weeks left to get healthy before the start of the season. Hopefully by the time the Volunteers kick things off on Sept. 1 against Ball State, he will be ready to make an impact.