A remorseful Brandon Johnson said he's working out and taking care of his studies while awaiting his hearing with UT student conduct committee on Nov. 12.

"I'm a believer that everything happens for a reason,'' Johnson said Tuesday. "But I want to be back with the team more than anything.''

Johnson, who started the first six games for the Vols at strong safety, was indefinitely suspended from the team after he was arrested for firing a handgun in the Fort Sanders area just after midnight on Oct. 18.

"I know it was stupid, but I didn't even think about what could have happened or somebody getting hurt,'' Johnson said. "I've never had any kind of problem with the law. I regret this more than anything.''

Johnson said his trial with the UT student conduct committee could result in probation and a heavy dose of community service. But he's also aware he could be suspended from school and lose his eligibility, and likely, his collegiate football career and a chance at playing in the NFL.

Tim Rogers, UT's vice chancellor for student affairs, explained the "university may hold a student accountable for misconduct that occurs off campus.''

Johnson will appear in Knox County General Sessions Court on Nov. 24, where he faces a felony charge of reckless endangerment. UT coach Phillip Fulmer could elect to wait until then before deciding whether to reinstate Johnson to the team.