Ed Orgeron updates eligibility of Tre Bradford, rules out defender

LSU head coach Ed Orgeron has updated the eligibility status of running back Kevontre Bradford. Bradford began his collegiate career at LSU last year before transferring to Oklahoma in June. In August, Bradford re-entered the NCAA Transfer Portal and came back to LSU. Earlier in the season, LSU was waiting for Bradford to be deemed eligible to play.

Bradford actually has been able to play for LSU, but he has been dealing with an injury, per Orgeron.

“Tre Bradford has been eligible, says LSU Coach O, but has likewise had a lingering hamstring injury,” WAFB reporter Jacques Doucet tweeted.

Bradford appeared in five games for LSU last season

Last season, Bradford appeared in five games as a freshman for LSU. He rushed 10 times for 58 yards, adding a touchdown reception. LSU’s rushing attack has been inconsistent this season, although Tyrion Davis-Price has emerged as the team’s leading rusher. Davis-Price has 627 yards and six touchdowns on 120 carries. Corey Kiner also has 220 yards and two touchdowns on 46 carries.

Josh Williams and Armoni Goodwin haven’t seen a lot of involvement as neither running back has more than 61 yards. LSU is averaging just 3.6 yards per carry as a team.

While Orgeron will be glad to get Bradford back whenever he can return, LSU quarterback Max Johnson is too. Earlier in the season, Johnson said that Bradford can bring a different dynamic to LSU’s running back room.

“I think he’s a great runner, he sees the holes,” Johnson said. “He’s actually a really good pass catcher as well. I think he brings great energy.”

In addition to the update on Bradford’s eligibility, Orgeron also said that LSU will be without former five-star recruit Sage Ryan back on defense. Ryan was one of the top safeties in his class.

“Sage Ryan out this week says LSU Coach O,” Doucet tweeted.

Ryan has five tackles and two passes defended this season.

LSU has a tough matchup on the road against Alabama in Week 10.