Tennessee wide receiver Bru McCoy underwent surgery on a fracture-dislocation of his right ankle on Sunday morning, UT announced.

It is a season-ending injury. McCoy remains at UT Medical Center for observation along with his family.

"Bru and his family appreciate all of your prayers and support since last night and in the days ahead," UT football posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. "Bru has displayed unwavering toughness, character and leadership as a Vol on and off the field, and he now begins the road to recovery determined to make this just a minor setback on his football journey."

McCoy suffered the gruesome injury in UT's 41-20 win over South Carolina on Saturday. He was carted off the field and taken to UT Medical Center accompanied by his family.

McCoy was expected to enter the 2024 NFL Draft after this season. Pre-draft workouts begin in January, but he would have until March to participate in UT's Pro Day.

McCoy has one year of college eligibility remaining because of a COVID-exempt year if he wants to return to UT. Of course, his health would be a factor in either option.

McCoy, a Southern Cal transfer and former five-star prospect, is UT's most physical receiver. The 6-foot-3, 220-pounder is a sure-handed wideout, hard runner, bruising blocker and team leader.

He had 17 catches for 217 yards and one touchdown this season for the Vols (4-1, 1-1 SEC), who are off this week before hosting Texas A&M on Oct. 14.

How Bru McCoy suffered serious injury

In the second quarter, McCoy caught a Joe Milton pass and fought for extra yardage as two South Carolina defenders wrestled him down. His right leg twisted during the tackle. As McCoy lay on the field, his right foot was turned 90 degrees to the right.

Athletic trainers for both teams rushed to McCoy while tight end Jacob Warren kneeled down next to him. After a few minutes, McCoy was carted off as UT teammates surrounded him.

When Warren caught a TD pass in the third quarter, he gestured support for McCoy by signaling his jersey No. 15 and then a heart shape with his hands.

Adam Sparks is the Tennessee football beat reporter. Email adam.sparks@knoxnews.com. X, formerly known as Twitter@AdamSparks. Support strong local journalism by subscribing at knoxnews.com/subscribe.

Get the latest news and insight on SEC football by subscribing to the SEC Unfiltered newsletter, delivered straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Bru McCoy injury update: Tennessee football receiver undergoes ankle surgery