Dooley Agrees To Release Vols WR DeAnthony Arnett
BETH RUCKER,AP Sports Writer
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Tennessee coach Derek Dooley said Tuesday that he's willing to allow freshman wide receiver DeAnthony Arnett to transfer to either Michigan State or Michigan to be close to his ailing father.
Dooley had come under fire from fans for initially holding the Saginaw, Mich., native to the same policy he applies to any player seeking a transfer. That policy is to limit players from transferring to schools the Volunteers either play or compete against for recruits.
Arnett said in a statement e-mailed to reporters last week that he was told he could play at a Mid-American Conference school but not at Michigan State or Michigan, both of which are located within 100 miles of his home. Arnett said recently that his father has had multiple heart attacks and is on dialysis.
"I'm very comfortable carving out an exception for him when he makes his request," Dooley said. "I'm really supportive of DeAnthony. He has a great future as a person and as a player. He's been very mature through this thing during a tough time and an emotional time. Once we started the one-on-one dialogue, it's been very comforting for both of us. I'm wishing him well there when that time comes."
Tuesday was the first day Arnett could make an official request to transfer as the Tennessee offices had been closed for the holidays.
Arnett was among the top 10 wide receiver prospects nationally in 2011 and caught 24 passes for 242 yards and two touchdowns while playing in all 12 games in 2011.
Arnett tweeted on Tuesday, "I am very appreciative of coach Dooley for making this decision today! We both have the same beliefs that family is first!"
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