KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Defensive back Vince Faison has left the Tennessee football team, citing continued high blood pressure.

Faison joined the Vols in spring practice after a nine-year professional baseball career.

Faison, 27, was a 2000 first-round draft pick of the San Diego Padres. He also played in minor league organizations for Seattle, the New York Yankees and Oakland.

Coach Phillip Fulmer said Faison will become a student coach for the team.