Tennessee dismisses DB Janzen Jackson

KNOXVILLE, TENN. (AP) - Tennessee coach Derek Dooley dismissed safety Janzen Jackson from the team on Wednesday as the junior’s personal issues had apparently become too much of a distraction.

Jackson withdrew from school in February to address personal issues but enrolled again in July and was reinstated to the Vols earlier this month as fall camp began. Dooley said after Tuesday’s practice that Jackson would remain with the team on a day-to-day basis.

Dooley did not specify what actions ultimately led to the Lake Charles, La., native’s dismissal on Wednesday.

“Our program has devoted a tremendous amount of energy, resources, support, and care in an effort to help Janzen manage his personal challenges,” Dooley said. “I will always be there to help him as a person, but there comes a time when a player’s actions preclude him from the privilege of playing for the University of Tennessee football team.

“Although I’m disappointed with this outcome, we will never compromise the long-term organizational values and goals we maintain here at Tennessee,” he said.

After the Vols’ Aug. 8 practice, Jackson said he was happy to be back on the field after dealing with what he said were personal issues and family problems. He and Dooley met frequently while Jackson was not with the team.

Jackson made 69 tackles and had a team-high five interceptions in 2010 which led to 114 interception return yards. He had made 22 starts in 23 games over two seasons with the Vols, and was expected to be a key part of the Volunteers’ secondary.

Dooley’s decision comes as the Vols wrap up fall practice. The team had a mock game scheduled for Wednesday night and planned to take a few days off before beginning preparation for the Sept. 3 opener against Montana.

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