APAn injury that first cropped up last season will linger into Baylor’s preparations for the upcoming season, defensive coordinator Phil Bennett has confirmed.
Linebacker Bryce Hager originally suffered a groin injury in the Oct. 12 win over Kansas State and, after playing through it the next four games, ultimately missed the last four games of the season. After visiting with a specialist in Philadelphia, Hager underwent surgery earlier this month to repair an abdominal tear and an adductor tear.
The surgery and subsequent rehab will keep Hager from participating in the 15 practice sessions this spring, which kicks off next week for the Bears. The good news, however, is that the senior should be fully recovered for the start of summer camp in early August.
Over the past two seasons, Hager has started 19 games. He led the Big 12 in tackles in 2012. In 2013, despite missing four full games and being less than 100 percent in four others, Hager finished third in tackles with 71.
