Jeremy Banks, Tennessee LB, details future plans ahead of Orange Bowl

Jeremy Banks announced his Tennessee playing career has come to an end.

The Volunteer linebacker shared Saturday night that he will be entering the 2023 NFL Draft and is opting out of next week’s Orange Bowl clash with Clemson.

“After many prayers, I have decided to begin preparing for the 2023 NFL Draft and will forego the upcoming Orange Bowl,” Banks wrote in a Twitter post. “I am excited to go to work in this next chapter and am so thankful to be a Tennessee Volunteer for life.”

I want to thank my family and friends for always having my back.

To my teammates, 1Love from JB forever and always
go hard while glorifying God!

To the Knoxville community, I appreciate you guys for being a positive light.

To the young athletes, growing up chasing this dream,

— Jeremy Banks (@33Banks_) December 25, 2022

among these 3 things will get you here faster than ever your education, hard work and discipline!

To everyone who’s on this journey with me, let’s ride! You are my inspiration! #33ouT #VFL pic.twitter.com/2csS6LDKPQ

— Jeremy Banks (@33Banks_) December 25, 2022

Banks has 53 tackles, including 4.5 for loss, and 8 QB hurries in 11 appearances this season. He joins wide receivers Jalin Hyatt and Cedric Tillman as Tennessee’s Orange Bowl opt-outs. Offensive tackle Darnell Wright and defensive end Byron Young have also declared for the NFL Draft but will play in Friday’s bowl game.

The article has been updated to reflect Jalin Hyatt and Cedric Tillman are the receivers out for the game.