Here’s an example of the revamped redshirt rule benefitting both a veteran college football player and his current program.
Because of more talent and experience ahead of him on the current depth chart, Brandon Johnson hasn’t received as much playing time or as many opportunities as had originally been expected heading into what would’ve been his final season at Tennessee. Wednesday night, Jeremy Pruitt confirmed that, after working it out with the player, this won’t be Johnson’s final season on Rocky Top after all as the wide receiver will take a redshirt for the 2019 season and return to the Volunteers next year.
Johnson, a three-star 2016 signee, has only played in four games this season, which is right at the threshold for being permitted to use a redshirt and retain a season of eligibility.
The Fort Lauderdale native has totaled 738 yards and one touchdown on 60 receptions during his career with the Vols. His best season came in 2017 when he caught 37 passes for 482 yards and the lone touchdown.
This season, Johnson has just two receptions for 31 yards, although he did return a blocked punt 24 yards for a touchdown in Week 3.
