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Vanderbilt Standout Seen With Boot and Scooter on Right Foot
Linebacker Bryan Longwell's injury status unclear ahead of Vanderbilt's spring game
Apr. 16, 2026 at 5:38pm
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A fractured, cubist-inspired illustration captures the uncertainty surrounding a key Vanderbilt defensive player's injury ahead of the team's spring game.Today in NashvilleVanderbilt linebacker Bryan Longwell was spotted at practice on Thursday wearing a boot on his right foot and using a scooter, raising concerns about his availability for the team's upcoming spring game. Longwell, a standout defensive player for the Commodores, was second on the team in tackles last season and has emerged as a leader on the defense.
Why it matters
Longwell's potential injury could be a significant setback for a Vanderbilt program that is looking to build on its progress from last season. As one of the team's top defensive players, his absence would leave a noticeable hole in the lineup and could impact the Commodores' performance in the spring game and heading into the 2026 season.
The details
Longwell was seen on the sidelines during the open portions of Vanderbilt's Thursday practice, wearing a white jersey but with shorts and shoes on. He was using a scooter and had a boot on his right foot, though no immediate update was provided on the nature or severity of his injury. Vanderbilt head coach Clark Lea is expected to address Longwell's status after the team's spring game on Saturday.
- Longwell was spotted at Vanderbilt's Thursday morning practice.
The players
Bryan Longwell
A senior linebacker for the Vanderbilt Commodores football team, Longwell was second on the team in tackles last season and has emerged as a defensive leader for the program.
Clark Lea
The head coach of the Vanderbilt Commodores football team, Lea will likely provide an update on Longwell's injury status after the team's spring game on Saturday.
What they’re saying
“He's engaged, like, that motivates the other guys around him. We can only be an elite defense and connected defense if we've got guys like Brian Longwell that have great leadership and just have a great aptitude for the game. And he's always willing to share with the younger guys and also collaborate with me and with the coaches.”
— Nick Lezynski, Vanderbilt co-defensive coordinator and linebackers coach
What’s next
Vanderbilt head coach Clark Lea will provide an update on Longwell's injury status after the team's spring game on Saturday.
The takeaway
Longwell's potential injury is a significant concern for a Vanderbilt program that is looking to build on its progress from last season. As one of the team's top defensive players and a leader on the team, his absence could have a significant impact on the Commodores' performance in the spring game and heading into the 2026 season.
