Ole Miss has lost another member of the Landshark defense.

Defensive back Tee Shepard has decided to leave the football team, but will remain enrolled in school to finish his degree.

Linebacker C.J. Johnson and safety Tony Conner are both out with knee injuries for the near future and defensive lineman Isaac Gross is out for the season.

Shepard’s departure leaves the 4-1 Rebels thin in the secondary.

“While we had hoped Tee would continue playing, he has chosen to conclude his career and focus on finishing his degree here at Ole Miss,” Freeze said in an athletic department release. “We respect his decision and wish him the very best. He will always be part of our family, and we hope he continues to use his platform to impact others.”

Shepard missed last season with a toe injury, paving the way for Senquez Golson to play. Golson led the SEC in interceptions.

Shepard had seen limited playing time this season, collecting just two tackles and on defended pass.

The former Notre Dame signee had achieved some notoriety earlier in his Rebels career. The Fresno, Calif., native has a hearing disability and he had shared his story with Memphis Oral School for the Deaf.

“The injuries and challenges I have overcome the last few years have taken away my love for playing the game of football,” Shepard said.

The Rebels host New Mexico State on Saturday.