The Tigers took their first big hit of 2016 with season-ending injuries to senior defensive end Christian LaCouture, and sophomore outside linebacker/defensive end Isaiah Washington.
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According to The Advocate, LaCouture tore his ACL in a non-contact drill Sunday, and Washington also suffered a serious knee injury. Both were expected to be key contributors this season. LSU's shift to a 3-4 scheme under defensive coordinator Dave Aranda was expected to hold big things for the 6-5, 300 pound LaCouture, who chose to forego the NFL and return to Baton Rouge for his last season.
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LaCouture's loss could, however, be absorbed by the arrival of Travonte Valentine, the nation's top-ranked junior college tackle. The 340 pound Valentine will reportedly be allowed to rejoin the Tigers' roster after being dismissed last season. Meanwhile, Washington was being used in a backup role in the defensive end/outside linebacker spot.
