The 2026 college football season hasn't started yet, but Tennessee is already feeling some massive holes in its defense due to preseason injuries. Safety Edrees Farooq was taken to UT Medical Center by ambulance on Aug. 14 with a knee injury he suffered in practice. On Aug. 15, it was confirmed he will be out for the season due to that injury. REQUIRED READING: Top 10 games of 2026 college football season include big dose of Arch Manning "Edrees Farooq suffered a season-ending torn patellar tendon in his right knee at practice on Friday morning," the statement reads. "We stand with Edrees and support him as he begins the recovery process. We know he will continue to make a strong leadership impact on our team this fall." Farooq joins Miami transfer CB Jadais Richard (upper-body injury) and sophomore LB Jaedon Harmon (torn ACL) as Vols defenders to be out for the year in defensive coordinator Jim Knowles' first season in Knoxville. Star linebacker Arion Carter will also miss the Vols' first two games due to a suspension for accepting a flight from his agent. 'I truly believe is bull****': Josh Heupel reacts to Arion Carter suspension
Edrees Farooq injury update Farooq's torn patellar tendon will sideline him for the year. Farooq, who was to play as a junior this season, still has eligibility after this year. There will be competition to take Farooq's starting role this season, with several transfers vying for the slot. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Vols starting safety Edrees Farooq out for season after being taken to hospital