Star LSU defensive tackle Maason Smith will miss the remainder of the season after tearing the ACL in his left knee during the team's season-opening loss to Florida State on Sunday, coach Brian Kelly confirmed Tuesday.
Smith underwent additional testing Monday on his knee, which he injured in the opening quarter while celebrating a stop on defense.
"We are crushed for him," Kelly said Tuesday. "He was celebrating for a teammate on the play. Any time you suffer an injury under those circumstances, it's extremely disappointing. He's a great player."
Smith was a freshman All-SEC selection last season, and the 6-foot-5, 300-pound Louisiana native was expected to be a centerpiece of the Tigers' defense in 2022.
Fellow sophomore Mekhi Wingo likely will replace him.