Former Tennessee football offensive lineman Ayden Bussell is stepping away from football to prioritize his health, according to WV Sports.
Bussell, a former in-state recruit from Mount Juliet, Tennessee, transferred to West Virginia this offseason. According to the report, he is ‘currently managing a serious but private health matter that requires his full attention. During this time, he will be with his family as he focuses on recovery and support.’
Bussell was on the Vols’ roster for two seasons before entering the portal and finding a new home with the Mountaineers. As a freshman, he did not see any game action, resulting in him earning a redshirt. As a redshirt freshman in 2024, Bussell played in three games, all at right guard. Off the bench, he recorded 62 snaps for a PFF grade of 72.4 on the season.
The three games he appeared in were against Chattanooga, Kent State and UTEP, a trio of games Tennessee won handily. His finest showing was against Kent State, where he posted an 80.2 grade on PFF with an 80.3 mark in the run game.
More From RTI: Boo Carter Continues to be Full Participant at Tennessee Football Practice
After going through spring camp with Tennessee ahead of the 2025 season, Bussell entered the transfer portal in the spring window on April 18 following the annual Orange & White Game. On May 4, he committed to West Virginia.
As a transfer, 247 ranked Bussell as a three-star prospect and the No. 1,327 player in the portal. He was also considered the No. 113 interior offensive lineman.
Out of high school, 247 ranked him as a three-star recruit and No. 51 offensive tackle. He was also tabbed the No. 19 player out of Tennessee.
At Mount Juliet High School, he helped lead the school to a 9-3 record and a region championship as a senior. He was promptly named the Region 5-5A Offensive Lineman MVP.
