Vols’ Pili out for season with torn ACL

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WJHL) – After a sizzling start to the 2024 campaign, the Tennessee Vols defensive unit suffered a major loss during Saturday’s game against Florida.

Middle linebacker Keenan Pili tore his right ACL against the Gators and will miss the remainder of the season, head coach Josh Heupel told reporters on Monday.

The captain and seventh-year player missed almost the entire 2023 season, as well, after suffering an injury in the opener with Virginia.

“I said it after the game, there’s nobody that represents Tennessee better than him,” Heupel said Monday. “He’s a great leader and will continue to be that inside our building. Just heartbroken for him and his family.”

Pili accumulated 29 tackles this season, which was tied for the best mark on the Big Orange defense.

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