Tennessee Vols LB Cortez McDowell out for season with wrist injury

This time a month ago, Tennessee linebackers Darrin Kirkland Jr., Austin Smith and Cortez McDowell all seemed primed for prominent roles on the Vols' defense.

Now, all three are hurt.

McDowell, UT's starting weakside linebacker, is out for the season with a wrist injury, coach Butch Jones confirmed Monday.

McDowell exited UT's game against Florida early in the third quarter after being on the receiving end of a block by Gators tight end Moral Stephens.

Tennessee leaned on its nickel package throughout Saturday's game, using a pair of linebackers in the box, along with nickelback Rashaan Gaulden.

McDowell ranks third on the team with 24 tackles. Quart'e Sapp filled in for McDowell after his injury.

McDowell's wrist injury is similar to that of wide receiver Jauan Jennings, who got hurt in the opener against Georgia Tech. Jones confirmed Jennings is out for the season.

The Vols lost Kirkland, their top middle linebacker, in August to a season-ending knee injury. Smith, who was prepared to start at strongside linebacker, has not played this year due to injury.

Jones also confirmed that safety Todd Kelly Jr., is out indefinitely with an injury. Kelly did not play against Florida. Jones said Kelly is getting a second opinion on his injury. GoVols247 reported that Kelly has a knee injury that dates back to last season.