LSU pass rush takes huge hit with loss of linebacker Michael Divinity

The LSU pass rush received a huge blow Monday morning after a report from Brody Miller of The Athletic stated that linebacker Michael Divinity would no longer be a part of the Tigers’ football program.

Coach Ed Orgeron confirmed the report at his weekly press conference, saying Divinity left the program for “personal reason.” The report comes less than a week after the news that defensive lineman Justin Thomas also left the program for personal reasons.

Both Divinity and Thomas, while not starters, were significant parts of LSU’s pass rush, especially as it developed throughout the season.

Now the Tigers will be without their sack leader heading into a matchup with No. 2 Alabama in Tuscaloosa. Divinity — while missing two of the first three games — recorded 23 tackles and three sacks up to this point of the season. He had one in each of LSU’s last two games against Mississippi State and Auburn.

Orgeron said that the pass rush “should be fine” with outside linebacker K’Lavon Chaisson still getting the majority of snaps as well as Andre Anthony and Ray Thornton, who both had experience filling in following Chaisson’s ACL injury last season. Jacob Phillips and Patrick Queen will continue to start at the two inside linebacker spots for the remainder of the season.

Orgeron said he would not close the door on Divinity’s return to the program after the season.