University of Tennessee Athletics
January 14, 2002 | Football
Jan. 14, 2002
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KNOXVILLE -- The University of Tennessee, at the request of Donte' Stallworth, is preparing to file papers through the NCAA for restoration of the junior wide receiver's eligibility. Stallworth declared himself available last week for the 2002 NFL Draft, thus relinquishing eligibility for his final playing season with the Vols.
"There is a petition that has to be filed by us through the eligibility committee of the NCAA," Fulmer told the Knoxville News-Sentinel. "Donte sent the (NFL draft) paperwork in around noon on Friday, but three hours later he called the NFL and asked to have his name rescinded from the list. The NFL said 'fine.' Now we'll have to see what the NCAA says."
Stallworth, who is on track to graduate in December, hauled in 41 passes for 821 yards and a team-leading 10 touchdowns in 2001. He also returned a punt for a score against Vanderbilt. He came became UT's first receiver to catch three touchdowns in consecutive games against Memphis and Kentucky.
"When the excitement of my announcement died down and I realized I no longer would be a part of the team and wouldn't be around for my senior season, that's when I began to feel uncomfortable with my decision," Stallworth said. "Since then, I've been working with the coaching staff to see what could be done."
"We are dealing with the procedures necessary to request restoration of eligibility," said UT athletic director Doug Dickey. "This will require some period of time to resolve -- whichever direction it goes."
