Missouri’s chance to add depth at running back took a hit Wednesday, with KSDK reporting that Nate Strong won’t play for the Tigers this season because of academic issues.

The Tigers, who reportedly will be without Strong until next January, could have used Strong’s help. They were last in the SEC and No. 120 overall in rushing yards per game last year. Ish Witter returns after totaling 518 yards on 126 carries in 2015, but questions remain about his ability to be dynamic threat in the backfield.

Strong, a native of East St. Louis, Ill., most recently attended Hines Community College. Rivals.com rated the 6-foot-1, 210-pounder as a four-star recruit, and 247 Sports tabbed him the No. 2 junior college running back of the 2016 signing class.