KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — In a press conference Monday, Tennessee football head coach Josh Heupel confirmed that linebacker Kennan Pili would be out for the rest of the season.
Pili tore his ACL during the game against Florida. Heupel said he was heartbroken for the veteran linebacker and his family.
Pili released his own statement after the disheartening news, addressing Vol nation in a social media post.
"To my brothers, coaches and staff, thank you for helping me become a better man on and off the field," Pili said. "Let's go finish what we started!"
He also addressed his family in the statement, thanking them along with his wife and his baby on the way for their sacrifices so he could live his dream.
"I hope I made you proud," Pili said.
He also thanked his friends and fans for treating him as family and giving him a place he could always call home.
"Your love and support has been felt during this time," Pili said. "To the game of football, I don't know what the future holds, but I thank you for a lifetime of memories I will cherish and never forget."
Pili finished out his statement with one last person to thank.
"As hard and confusing as life may be, I thank my Father in Heaven for allowing me to play this game, and I trust in His Plan," Pili said. "Same book, new chapter."
The Vols won in overtime against the Florida Gators, 23-17. They take on Alabama in Neyland Stadium at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday.
