LSU football star's season ends with major injury during first game celebration

Smith was a freshman ALL-SEC selection last year and his loss is sure to impact the team's defense.

By Ben Whedon

Published: September 6, 2022 5:50pm

Updated: September 6, 2022 6:22pm

Louisiana State University defensive tackle Maason Smith suffered a significant injury during the season opener Saturday against Florida State University.

Footage shows Smith celebrating after a play before he lands awkwardly on his left leg and begins hobbling.

LSU DT Maason Smith appeared to have suffered an injury after celebrating this play. pic.twitter.com/SJDBAoJUA5

— ESPN (@espn) September 5, 2022

Smith tore his ACL, according to ESPN and will be out for the rest of the season.

"We are crushed for him," LSU coach Brian Kelly said Tuesday, per the outlet. "He was celebrating for a teammate on the play. Any time you suffer an injury under those circumstances, it's extremely disappointing. He's a great player."

Smith was a freshman ALL-SEC selection last year and his loss is sure to impact the team's defense, ESPN noted.