TCU LB problems grow as freshman starter takes leave of absence

TCU's linebacker problems went from bad to worse Wednesday.

On the heels of losing Sammy Douglas, the unit's lone experienced player, promising true freshman starter Mike Freeze has taken a leave of absence one game into his college career. The No. 3-ranked Horned Frogs, who were replacing their top three linebackers from 2014, are now desperately thin at the position as they head into their home opener Saturday against Stephen F. Austin.

TCU coach Gary Patterson told reporters after Wednesday's practice that he had no definitive reason for Freeze leaving the team and referred to his departure as personal reasons with no timetable for his return. Patterson said Freeze could be gone "maybe forever," and said his departure was not discipline-related.

Patterson said true freshman linebacker Montrel Wilson is expected to start at one of the linebacker positions and Ty Summers will probably fill the other hole after taking over when Douglas went down at Minnesota.

Both losses in Patterson's 4-2-5 defense are significant for a team expected to make a run at a playoff berth.

(h/t Dallas Morning News)