Dec 31, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Louisville Cardinals quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) is sacked for a safety by LSU Tigers defensive end Arden Key (49) during the first half at Camping World Stadium. Photo Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Key is recovering from a shoulder injury, Orgeron said. Key missed spring practice because of undisclosed personal reasons.
“We respect that. He came back, had some work done on his shoulder,” Orgeron said. “We don’t know when he’s going to be back, but we expect him to be back and have a great season. He’s in tremendous shape right now.”
Key, who is listed at 6-foot-5, is up to about 255 to 260 pounds, Orgeron said.
Rated the No. 6 overall prospect by NFLDraftScout.com, Key proved to be an immediate difference-maker for LSU. He played in all 12 games as a true freshman and led the Tigers with nine quarterback hurries, along with 41 tackles, including 6.5 for loss and five sacks.
Key was considerably more productive as a sophomore last season, emerging as a verifiable star. He recorded 56 tackles, including 15.5 for loss and 12 sacks, with 11 quarterback hurries and three forced fumbles.
Whether rushing from the three-point stance or standing up, Key possesses the explosive first step to leave tackles in his wake. Unlike most defenders with his length, Key shows excellent balance and flexibility to run the arc, scraping the edge and closing in a flash.
LSU players report to camp July 30, with practice starting a day later.
