Crompton to have shoulder surgery, unlikely to play in 2005

The Tennessee incoming freshman quarterback is unlikely to be available this season after UT trainers determined that his sore right shoulder would require exploratory surgery to determine the extent of an injury to his throwing shoulder.

An MRI revealed that there is likely damage to the labral cartilage, according to UT head athletic trainer Keith Clements.

"Jonathan and his family have elected to pursue surgical management of his right shoulder pain," Clements said in a statement. "A tentative date of Aug. 8 has been scheduled so UT team orthopedists can perform an evaluative arthroscopic surgery to determine the type and extent of the damage and appropriately manage his condition."

The surgery could result in three options: If the damage to the joint is severe, reconstructive surgery could keep Crompton out for 6-to-8 months. If Crompton only needs arthroscopic surgery, then he would be sidelined for 3-to-4 months.

There is a minimal chance that the exploratory surgery will not find any damage in his shoulder, allowing Crompton to avoid a lengthy absence.

In either scenario, the Tuscola High School standout from Waynesville, N.C., would redshirt.

Crompton enrolled at UT for summer school in June. Since his arrival, his throwing has been limited because of tendinitis.

Crompton's sore shoulder was originally thought to be a result of too much throwing leading up to UT's voluntary summer workouts. Tests in June showed no structural damage to Crompton's shoulder. An injury suffered during his junior year in high school may have also contributed to the condition.

Crompton returned to summer workouts June 27, two weeks after Tennessee trainers told him to rest his shoulder for at least a month.

UT coach Phillip Fulmer said he hopes Crompton can make a speedy recovery.

"Our best wishes go out to Jonathan," Fulmer said in a statement. "After the surgical procedure, Dr. (Bill) Youmans and his staff will have a much better picture of his recovery status for the 2005 season. Jonathan has worked diligently to get ready for this fall, but he is making the right decision for his long-term health and future."

Tennessee begins preseason drills on Aug. 5.

Crompton was one of the highest-rated prospects in UT's 2005 class and one of the highest-rated quarterbacks in the nation.