Sept. 3, 2010

OXFORD, Miss. -- After positive news from cardiac specialists, Ole Miss' Kentrell Lockett is expected to return to action next week, it was determined Friday.

The defensive end and team captain began experiencing heart rhythm issues during a scrimmage last Saturday and was immediately cared for by Ole Miss Athletics' medical director Dr. Jeff Dennis and medical consultant Dr. Chuck Hill.

On Tuesday, Lockett traveled to Cleveland, Ohio, to visit cardiac specialists at the Cleveland Clinic Heart Center. He underwent several tests looking for rhythms and obstructive changes that would cause concern, and the studies showed no signs of anatomical abnormalities.

The Cleveland Clinic's findings this morning were that the cause of Lockett's discomfort was atrial fibrillation, which is the most common cardiac arrhythmia and does not restrict him from competition.

"We feel like that with the technology and doctors in Cleveland, we have determined a good medical plan for Kentrell," Dennis said. "He will be monitored daily, and if everything goes well, he could return to physical activity on Wednesday, practice on Thursday and the game on Saturday."

A senior from Hahnville, La., Lockett is the 2010 Chucky Mullins Courage Award winner and has been named to several preseason All-SEC teams. He boasts 22.5 career TFLs and 8.0 sacks.