Kiffin checks on Vols in classrooms

Vinson resolves academic issues; Myers won't return

By Drew Edwards

Originally published 11:27 p.m., January 8, 2009
Updated 11:27 p.m., January 8, 2009

Lane Kiffin has his hands full with recruiting and assembling a coaching staff. But on Thursday morning, Tennessee's new coach delayed his return to the recruiting trail for a quick tour of campus.

Specifically, the classrooms.

Kiffin spent about three hours making unannounced visits to several players' classes, including on attended by star safety Eric Berry.

Defensive back Daryl Vereen also got a surprise visit from Kiffin, who spent time in the classes before leaving to visit with recruits Thursday afternoon.

Those unannounced trips to class were intended to put an emphasis on academics as players begin the spring semester.

While Kiffin was in class, defensive back Brent Vinson resolved his latest academic issue and remains enrolled at UT as well as a member of the football team.

Until Thursday, Vinson's status had been uncertain. WBIR reported late Wednesday night that Vinson had been dismissed from the team along with two other players.

The sophomore, who is one of UT's most athletic players, should be available for the 2009 season as long as he remains in good academic standing.

Thursday also brought news that reserve offensive lineman Darius Myers will not rejoin the team.

Myers was suspended two games this past season by former UT coach Phillip Fulmer for "lack of academic effort" and a violation of team rules.

According to UT, Myers was never reinstated following his suspension, although the sophomore from Memphis did return to practice.

Myers ends his UT career having played in two games, both of which came as a redshirt freshman in 2007.

After playing in all 14 games as a true freshman in 2007, Vinson's playing time tailed off this season for a variety of reasons.

He did not travel to Los Angeles for UT's season-opener against UCLA because of an academic-related suspension, and he missed the first half of the Northern Illinois game after showing up late to a team meeting.

He also missed UT's game against South Carolina due to suspension, likely the result of a traffic stop that ended with police issuing Vinson five citations. Vinson did not play the following week against Wyoming as well.

He returned to the field against Vanderbilt, where he returned his only interception of the season 69 yards.

The next week, he did not play in the season finale against Kentucky, at least partially due to a leg injury suffered the week before against Vanderbilt.

All told, Vinson played eight of UT's 12 games in last season and finished with 13 tackles and one pass broken up.

Drew Edwards covers University of Tennessee football. He may be reached at 865-342-6274.