Hawai'i offensive tackle Laupepa Letuli's knee injury is serious enough that he is not expected to play the rest of the football season.

But, in a twist, his situation actually could benefit his football career.

Letuli appears to be a strong candidate for a medical hardship that will enable him to play as a sixth-year senior in 2010.

One of the requirements is that a candidate must have endured injuries that prevented him from playing in two seasons.

Letuli did not play in his first UH season, in 2005, because of a shoulder injury. He subsequently suffered a knee injury.

This season, he appeared in only the first three games — the maximum allowed to qualify for a medical hardship.

The special medical exemptions may be sought only at the conclusion of what would be a player's senior season.

But in recent years, the Warriors have successfully petitioned for the extra year. Among the winning petitioners were running back Nate Ilaoa, wideout Ian Sample, safety Leonard Peters and defensive tackle Lui Fuga.

Letuli said he definitely will seek a sixth year of eligibility.

He is suffering from an injury to the tendon behind his left kneecap. He has tried several remedies, including an experimental procedure in which his blood was drawn, treated with nutrients, then injected into the injured area. The procedure is intended to strengthen the tendon.

Head coach Greg McMackin acknowledged that a sixth year is being explored for Letuli. McMackin said academic and compliance officials will check on the situation.

But for now, McMackin said, "I'm just thinking about this year."

TORMEY GRIEVING

Chris Tormey, who coaches the safeties and coordinates special teams, is scheduled to return to Honolulu today after attending his sister's funeral in New York.

Tormey departed for New York Wednesday.

McMackin told Tormey he could take as much time off as he wished, and that he would be excused from coaching in tomorrow's game against Utah State.

But Tormey decided he wanted to return in time to coach this afternoon's walk-through practice.

"I told him to do whatever's best for his family, and don't worry about us," McMackin said. "But he wants to be here for the game. ... Family is always first. That's what all of our values should be."

Associate head coach Rich Miano, who coordinates the defensive secondary, said he "feels" for Tormey. Miano's younger brother died when both were young.

Tormey is "part of our family," Miano said. "Family is very important. This is rough."

INJURY UPDATES

• Cornerback Jeramy Bryant said he will miss his second consecutive game because of torn biceps in his left arm.

• Free safety/nickelback Richard Torres went through light drills yesterday to test his pulled left hamstring. He said he believes he will be ready to play in tomorrow's game.