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govols247 | Pruitt to ESPN: Kirkland not transferring, will remain with Vols

Tennessee Linebacker Darrin Kirkland Jr. formerly announced he's leaving the program on his personal Twitter account Thursday evening, but it appears he'll actually be staying at Rocky Top.

It turns out Tennessee actually won't be losing one of its most talented football players.

Inside linebacker Darrin Kirkland Jr., who announced on Thursday of last week he planned to leave the Vols and play his final two seasons of eligibility elsewhere as a graduate transfer, has reconsidered his decision and will return to Tennessee.

First-year head coach Jeremy Pruitt confirmed Kirkland's abrupt 180 to ESPN's Chris Low during his media session at SEC Spring Meetings in Sandestin, Fla., on Tuesday.

"The injuries have been hard on him, but he wants to be here and we want him here," Pruitt told ESPN. "He can definitely help us."

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Original Story:

Tennessee Linebacker Darrin Kirkland Jr. announced he's leaving the program on his personal Twitter account Thursday evening.

“For the last 3 years The University of Tennessee has been my home,” Kirkland tweeted. “After much prayer, thought, and consideration about what my future holds, I have decided to use my last 2 years of eligibility as a graduate transfer to another university to pursue my graduate degree while playing football. Tennessee will always hold a special place in my heart. These moments have been priceless and I’m a better player and man from this experience.”

Kirkland has battled injuries during the past three years including a meniscus tear that kept him sidelined for the 2017 season.

Kirkland was projected as a starter at linebacker this season as he continued to work his way back onto the field.

He did not indicate where he plans to transfer, but as a grad transfer, he will be eligible to play immediately.

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