LSU freshman tight end Arik Gilbert officially opted out of the 2020 college football season, head coach Ed Orgeron confirmed on Wednesday.
Orgeron said he spoke with Gilbert again on Tuesday, and the freshman confirmed he would indeed be opting out of the remainder of the 2020 season.
Arik and I had a good conversation,” Orgeron said, via Shea Dixon of 247Sports. “He told me that he was opting out. He said his body was hurting, and he had some things he had to take care of.”
Earlier in the week, it was reported that Gilbert was homesick and considering a transfer closer to his hometown of Marietta, Georgia.
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Orgeron discussed that possibility, too.
Do I think we have a chance at getting him back next season? Yeah, Orgeron said. “Is there a chance of him transferring? I don’t know that. He hasn’t told me he’s transferring, but obviously, we’re going to re-recruit him, and obviously, we wish him the best.
Gilbert is the ninth LSU player to opt out this season.
Gilbert finished his first season at LSU with 35 receptions for 368 yards and two touchdowns.
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#LSU Coach O says freshman tight end Arik Gilbert has opted out on the remainder of the 2020 season.
— Jacques Doucet (@JacquesDoucet) December 9, 2020
The Tigers have two games remaining this season, beginning on Saturday at No. 6 Florida.
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