I’ve dealt with quite a few sad stories over the past five-plus years I’ve been with CFT and NBC, but this one ranks right up there amongst the ones that didn’t involve a death.
While the details are extremely scant at the moment, Jim Kleinpeter of the New Orleans Times-Picayune, citing multiple sources, is reporting that LSU true freshman Trey Lealaimatafao is facing the amputation of an arm following an incident in the Tigers’ weight room earlier today. The only information relating to the incident at this time is that Lealaimatafao reportedly punched a glass window in the team’s weight room.
Not that it really matters at the moment, but what led to the punch, whether it was directed at a teammate or out of frustration/anger, is unknown.
LSU’s officials have declined to comment on the player’s status, although a statement addressing the issue could be released as early as tonight.
Lealaimatafao was a three-star member of the Tigers’ 2014 recruiting class, rated as the No. 26 defensive tackle in the country and the No. 43 player in the state of Texas at any position.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Lealaimatafao during this most difficult time.
UPDATED 8:22 p.m. ET: Fortunately, there’s some good news on this front.
Updating his story from just a short time ago, Kleinpeter is reporting that, per an LSU athletic department official, Lealaimatafao is not in danger of losing his arm to amputation. Kleinpeter also provided a couple of additional details that led to an injury that, while not nearly serious as previously reported, will likely keep the defensive lineman out for the 2014 season: