After receiving medical attention from a trainer, seasoned LSU running back John Emery left the field during Saturday morning’s practice and was unable to return.
Before getting up, Emery, a sixth-year player recovering from a ruptured right ACL sustained in November of last year, was evaluated on the ground for a few minutes.
Later, the former Destrehan High School five-star cautiously strolled down the sidelines, attempting to stretch the surgically repaired knee, which is shielded by a sleek brace. He also spent a few minutes riding a stationary bike.
Emery’s condition was not immediately known because LSU coach Brian Kelly was not expected to speak with the media following practice on Saturday.
Emery was a proactive participant in the Tigers’ first preseason training on August 1 and was purposefully given a high workload, according to Kelly.
Kelly stated at the time, “He had to cut, he had to be stressed.” Since he has been cleared, we wanted each and every one of his reps to be really valuable. We wanted to truly stress him in order to make sure he feels okay with that knee, not simply have him out there blocking or taking reps without having to plant his foot and accelerate. Because he is bold and will go if he is feeling wonderful.
With just three additional scholarship backs available in camp and likely for the entire season—true freshman Caden Durham, sophomore Kaleb Jackson, and sixth-year Josh Williams—LSU cannot afford an injury at that position.
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