UT's Dooley dismisses talented, troubled defensive back

Safety Janzen Jackson has been dismissed from the University of Tennessee football team, head coach Derek Dooley announced in a release from the school sent on Wednesday.

Jackson, who reportedly failed multiple drug tests, left UT in February and then re-enrolled in July.

“Our program has devoted a tremendous amount of energy, resources, support, and care in an effort to help Janzen manage his personal challenges,” Dooley said. “I will always be there to help him as a person, but there comes a time when a player’s actions preclude him from the privilege of playing for the University of Tennessee football team.

“Although I’m disappointed with this outcome, we will never compromise the long-term organizational values and goals we maintain here at Tennessee.”

Jackson, a junior from Lake Charles, La., also ran into trouble as a freshman in 2009. He was suspended for three games, two for his part in a failed armed robbery attempt with a couple teammates.

Jackson made 22 starts in 23 games played and tied for the team lead in interceptions with five in 2010. He also led the Volunteers’ secondary last season with 69 tackles, earning All-Southeastern Conference Second Team honors. The 6-foot, 187-pounder finishes his career at UT with six interceptions, 15 passes defended and 106 tackles.