Yikes.
Entering the 2011 season, Texas Tech was expecting big things from junior college transfer Leon Mackey along their defensive line. Now, they’re just hoping for, first and foremost, a full recovery as well as a possible return at some point this season.
Head coach Tommy Tuberville informed the media Tuesday that Mackey had suffered a “deflated lung” during the Red Raiders’ season-opening win over Texas State Saturday. The defensive end, who started the opener, was hit in the chest during the game, leading to a 24-hour hospital stay.
Tuberville did not give a timeline for a return, although he indicated it will be an extended period of time.
“It’s up in the air how long he’ll be out,” Tuberville said. “Probably several weeks, maybe more.”
Mackey was a four-star recruit according to Rivals.com and one of the top JUCO players in the country in 2011. He had originally signed with South Carolina in 2009, but was unable to gain academic clearance and was forced to drop down to the JUCO level. If he ultimately misses the 2011 season, a medical redshirt could be an option.
With Mackey out, Jackson Richards will take his place in the starting lineup.
