SALT LAKE CITY — Utah opened camp Thursday without projected starting receiver Cory Butler-Byrd.
“Cory is dealing with personal issues and has been suspended from our team indefinitely,” Utah coach Kyle Whittingham said in a released statement.
The senior will remain on scholarship, however, he will not participate in any team activities during his suspension.
After camp opened Thursday at Ute Field, Whittingham acknowledged the situation “means more opportunities for other players.” Butler-Byrd’s backup on the depth chart is junior Kyle Fulks, who has 4.4 speed and is among a handful of candidates to fill the vacancy.
“He’s got to make the most of it,” Whittingham said. “Getting an opportunity is one thing and making the most of it is another.”
Whittingham expressed appreciation for how the Utes consistently adapt to having someone step up when needed.
“Love it,” he said. “That’s how we operate and that’s how we’ve always operated. That’s our team mentality.”
Butler-Byrd played in all 13 games last season and started five times. He saw action as a defensive back, receiver and kick returner. Highlights included making three interceptions on defense, a 54-yard reception for a score on offense, and returning a kickoff 98 yards for a touchdown.