TCU linebacker Mike Freeze taking leave of absence
TCU freshman linebacker Mike Freeze is taking a leave of absence from the team, head coach Gary Patterson told reporters on Wednesday.
Patterson said Freeze did not practice the last two days and that he did not know how long the Graham, Texas, native would be away from the team. He added that Freeze was not dealing with a “discipline” issue.
Freeze recorded seven tackles in TCU’s season-opening 23–17 win over Minnesota last Thursday. An early enrollee, he played his way into early playing time after making a strong impression during spring practices.
The Horned Frogs were already thin at linebacker after junior Sammy Douglas was ruled out for the season due to an unspecified injury on Tuesday. Patterson said on Wednesday Douglas would redshirt this season.
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Both Douglas and Freeze started against Minnesota, meaning the Horned Frogs will have to find two new starters. Patterson said freshman Montrel Wilson will start at one of the spots.
Douglas was the most experienced linebacker on the roster; every other player listed at the position is a sophomore or younger.
The injuries come after TCU graduated its top three linebackers after last season. In total, seven defensive players made their first starts against Minnesota.
No. TCU will face Stephen F. Austin on Saturday for its home opener.
- Mike Fiammetta
