Ole Miss’ defense received a blow this week with news that Brandon Mack, a linebacker, who started a game last season, will miss the 2021 season because of recent foot surgery.

The 6-foot-4, 235-pound sophomore from Montgomery, Ala., was expected to play a key role on the Ole Miss defense this season, but instead will be in a walking boot for a while, OM Spirit reported.

Mack tore his Lisfranc in his foot while doing off-season drills, the Spirit was told. A Lisfranc injury happens when the ligaments or bones in the middle of your foot are fractured, sprained or dislocated. Recovery time can often take three to six months. The Lisfranc is located in the middle of the foot.

Mack appeared in five games last season and made six tackles.

Mack made his first career start last season in the Rebels’ victory over South Carolina. Mack was expected to play a regular role in the defensive rotation heading into the 2021 season.

Here’s his Ole Miss bio coming out of high school:

A unanimous 3-star prospect according to Rivals, ESPN and 247Sports … No. 37 weak- side defensive end in the nation (Rivals) … Ranked 15th overall in the state of Alabama (Rivals) … Selected to play in the 2018 Alabama/Mississippi All-Star Game … Led Jefferson Davis High School with 68 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, and 10 sacks during his senior season … Played on varsity for his sophomore, junior, and senior years … Finished high school career with 113 tackles, 25 tackles for loss, and 10 sacks … Chose Ole Miss over Kentucky, LSU, Louisville, Memphis, Mississippi State and others … Coached by Lee Carter.