LSU coach Les Miles said Tuesday that junior linebacker Perry Riley will be held out of the remainder of spring practice because of a foot injury. “Riley may have a broken bone in his foot,” Miles said. “But he’ll be fine. It’s only a four-week [injury].” Miles said Riley’s absence will be useful to the development of a relatively inexperienced linebacker corps. “The good news is there will be some young linebackers getting a lot of snaps,” he said. “Kelvin Sheppard, Shomari Clemens and Kellen Theriot will get a lot of reps. Those are guys whose names you haven’t heard us mention much.” The departure of seniors Luke Sanders and Ali Highsmith leaves two starting spots up for competition. Riley totaled 24 tackles this past season including two solo tackles in the BCS National Championship game.
JONES STAYING WITH FOOTBALLMiles said sophomore safety Chad Jones will be a full contributor to spring football practice for the next month. Jones, a backup right fielder on the LSU baseball team, has been splitting time between baseball and football this spring. “There’s some advantages to him being on this side of the street.” Miles said. “It was [Mainieri’s] decision. In the short term, I don’t think it’ll hurt him in baseball.” Jones is expected to return to the baseball team following the completion of LSU’s spring football game April 5. In 14 games this past season, Jones made 26 tackles, two sacks and an interception. Competing with Jones for the two starting safety positions this spring will be incumbent starter Curtis Taylor, junior Harry Coleman and junior Danny McCray. “Are we set [at safety]? No.” Miles said. “But I think we’re effective the way the competition is playing out.” Taylor started all but one game this past season as a junior, totaling 54 tackles. Coleman played primarily as the backup to All-American Craig Steltz but shined in the BCS title game with a fumble recovery and a crucial quarterback hurry. McCray contributed 64 tackles and three sacks as a nickleback.
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