Tennessee's offensive line was once thought to be the deepest, most competitive unit on the field. Seven games into the season, the offensive front has taken another hit, long term.

Junior offensive guard Jack Jones' football career is over.

Jones hasn't played in two weeks because of continuing neck/shoulder issues. Last week, Jones went to Dallas to see a specialist where up advice there he has given up the game.

“Jack has had some reoccurring neck and shoulder injuries and after meeting with doctors everyone felt it was in his best interest that he would no longer play football. Obviously, we hurt for Jack and we hurt for his great family. We will be there for support and he will be a part of this football team moving forward.”

Jones finishes his career with 9 starts and played in 23 career games. Teammate Brett Kendrick made it clear on Monday, that Jones remains a part of the offensive line unit.

"It's tough. Obviously, Jack Jones is from Tennessee and he loves this place," Kendrick said. "We still love Jack. He's still a part of the team and is here everyday with us. He texted us right before the game on Saturday. I know it's hard on him. I can't imagine what he's going through because he loves this game. He loves his school and he loves his teammates. I can't say enough about Jack and his character through all of this. I feel for him. We still love him and he has our back."

With the loss of Jones, departure of Venzell Boulware, and the unknown of Chance Hall to go with three departing seniors, the Vols depth not only for this year but for the future is an issue.

“The offensive line recruiting is paramount for this program. It's great in terms of recruiting because individuals are going to have the opportunity to come in here and compete and play right away. Obviously that recruiting element is big with our lack of numbers and lack of depth right now. It's going to mean tremendous opportunities for individuals that come to Tennessee. Again, we have to do a great job as a staff in terms of keeping our health as an offensive front. I have a tremendous amount of respect for that group. We have a lot of kids who are battling through a lot of things. The challenges aren't just on gameday, but also through your preparation throughout the course of the week.”

Jones said he expects Jashon Robertson to practice this week and be available for Saturday. Robertson was injured in the second half at Alabama with an apparent foot or ankle injury.