Tennessee linebacker A.J. Johnson, one of the Volunteers' top NFL prospects, is one of two UT players under investigation by Knoxville (Tenn.) police in a rape and sexual assault allegation, according to The Tennessean. The other is defensive back Michael Williams.
Tennessee coach Butch Jones acknowledged that two of his players were involved in the investigation earlier on Monday, saying neither would be allowed to practice with the team, but declined to identify Johnson and Williams by name. Later in the day, the school confirmed it had suspended the two via social media:
Two 19-year-old female victims, one a UT student, were interviewed by police. The UT student told police she was raped by two male students, according to the report.
No charges have been filed.
Johnson was arrested in February and charged with purchasing alcohol for a minor, and resisting arrest.
On the field, Johnson's pro potential has been questioned for his lack of lateral quickness, even though he's been among the SEC's leading tacklers for three seasons. An AFC West scout, however, recently told College Football 24/7 that Johnson has looked better this season. The senior went over 100 tackles on Saturday against Kentucky, and leads the Volunteers with 101, including nine tackles for loss and two forced fumbles.
Johnson considered turning pro last year, but opted to return to UT for his senior season.
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