When Derrick Lykes’ name did not appear on Auburn’s 105-man roster that was released Wednesday, it was a hint that something might be amiss with the defensive lineman.
A day later, the amiss has been confirmed.
Multiple media outlets are reporting that Lykes (pictured, No. 97) has been dismissed from the football program for violating unspecified team rules. An Auburn spokesperson confirmed the news to both the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer and the Opelika-Auburn News.
Head coach Gene Chizik subsequently confirmed the dismissal as well, adding that there was no chance for a return.
Lykes was projected as a backup defensive tackle for the Tigers, but was also projected to receive more playing time as part of that line’s rotation given the attrition the unit suffered since the end of last season.
In 2010, Lykes, a two-star member of AU’s 2008 recruiting class, played in just three games after playing in 13 as a redshirt freshman the year before.