KNOXVILLE -- Tennessee's quarterback situation took another twist on Friday afternoon.
According to a release from Colorado's football program, Sheriron Jones, the freshman who decided to transfer to the Buffaloes from the Volunteers earlier this month, has been granted his release and will return to Tennessee.
Jones announced his intentions to transfer on January 7.
"My job is to work with the whole person," Colorado coach Mike MacIntyre said in a statement. "Each player is unique and comes with unique needs and concerns. Throughout the past couple of weeks, Sheriron and I have spent a lot of time trying to sort out his circumstances.
"We have concluded that it is in his best interests for him to return to Tennessee."
Tennessee spokesman Ryan Robinson confirmed that the Vols are aware of Colorado's announcement, but cannot confirm Jones's return until the program receives the paperwork that accompanies his release.
According to Colorado's release there is an NCAA rule that allows players to return to the school from which they transferred if the decision to do so is made within 14 days.
The 6-foot-2, 208-pound former four-star recruit out of California signed with Tennessee last January and redshirted this season as Tennessee's No. 3 quarterback behind starter Josh Dobbs and backup Quinten Dormady, another freshman.
The Vols will add a fourth quarterback to the mix next month when four-star prospect Jarrett Guarantano signs with Tennessee.
Contact Patrick Brown at pbrown@timesfreepress.com.