Former University of Tennessee wide receiver James Banks likely will continue his education at Carson-Newman College in the fall, but will not play football, his father said.

"We’re just trying to make the best decision for him (James) and our family," James Banks Sr. said Thursday.

Banks Sr. didn’t say why his son won’t play football.

Banks, who has two years of eligibility remaining, had no comment.

Carson-Newman officials would neither confirm nor deny a change in Banks’ status. C-N coach Ken Sparks was unavailable for comment.

Banks, Tennessee’s leading receiver in 2003, was dismissed from the Vols in December 2004 after he was caught trying to submit a urine sample for a drug test using a prosthetic device.

He transferred to Carson-Newman prior to this past school year and practiced with the team but didn’t play. Sparks said then that Banks would have to "earn" his playing time with the team, referring not only to on-the-field performance but also classroom work and good behavior off the field.

Banks played in C-N’s spring scrimmage in March.

Banks Sr. said his son was planning to enroll in the second session of summer school and also will be enrolled when classes start this fall. In addition, Banks Sr. left open the possibility that his son would consider other colleges.

"We’ve talked about other schools and even getting back close to home (Indiana)," Banks Sr. said. "(But) Our plans are to play at Carson-Newman."

Jamar Hudson may be reached at 865-342-6287.