Camion Patrick and T.J. Simmons Granted Medical Hardship Waivers

IU Athletics Release

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. - The Indiana football program announced today that fifth-year senior linebacker T.J. Simmons and fifth-year senior running back Camion Patrick have been granted medical hardships, which unfortunately will end their football careers. IU’s medical staff submitted the hardship waivers to the Big Ten Conference and a committee within the league office approved.

“T.J. was a three-year starter and a tough kid that I was looking forward to coaching,” head coach Tom Allen said. “He did everything that he could to get himself back from his knee injury, but he was unable to reach a place where he could consistently play. T.J. is excited about his new role as a student assistant coach in the weight room and on the field. He will be helping his teammates get better. T.J. has such a passion for the game and this program, and I am thrilled to have him help us breakthrough.”

Simmons started 35 times and appeared in each of the first 37 games of his career at middle linebacker before he received a medical redshirt in 2016. The Lakeland, Fla., native collected 213 career tackles, 122 solo, with six sacks, 16.5 stops for loss, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery.

Patrick suffered an ACL injury during 2016 spring practice and returned to action on Sept. 24. He suffered a late season shoulder injury and had offseason surgery.

“Unfortunately, Camion dealt with multiple injuries during his time at IU and was never able to fully recover,” Allen said. “He has worked hard in the classroom. Camion has battled to get back following each injury, but his body has let him down. He recognizes that. We recognize that, and we want to help him finish strong in the classroom and help him create a bright future for himself.”

Patrick arrived in Bloomington in 2015 from East Mississippi Community College. In 2016, he caught six passes for 154 yards with a 40-yard touchdown and rushed four times for 10 yards with a TD at No. 3 Michigan.