Defensive end Darris Smith of No. 11 Missouri will sit out the season due to a knee injury sustained during practice, announced Tigers coach Eli Drinkwitz on Wednesday.
Smith, who transferred from Georgia, had played in 16 games over two seasons at his previous school. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 240 pounds, he was vying for a starting position against Zion Young, a transfer from Michigan State.
Drinkwitz expressed his disappointment over Smith’s injury, praising his performance during training camp and expressing hope for a strong comeback after recovery.
With Johnny Walker Jr. returning at one defensive end position, Missouri is also looking to replace Darius Robinson, an all-SEC pass rusher, on the other side of the line. Players like Joe Moore III and Eddie Kelly from Georgia Tech are also being considered for playing time.
Because Smith did not redshirt during his time at Georgia, he will still have two more years of eligibility left.
Missouri is set to kick off their season on Aug. 29 against Murray State.