Redshirt freshman linebacker Drew Laurenti will miss the remainder of Illinois States spring football practice after breaking the third metacarpal in his left hand late in Saturdays practice, the first full-contact session of the spring.
Head coach Denver Johnson was obviously disappointed with the injury, but is optimistic about Laurentis future with the Redbird defense.
I hate to see that happen to the young man, Johnson said. Drew appeared to be off to a great start and the defensive coaches were really encouraged with his effort. He was in a position to be a contributor and he was making great strides. We hope to see the same from him when he returns in the fall.
Laurenti, whos older brother Jon is a wide receiver on the team, will undergo surgery on Wednesday to have a pin and plate placed in his hand. After the operation, the Kankakee, Ill., native will be placed in a posterior splint. A full recovery is expected and Laurenti should be ready for fall practice.
The Redbirds return to the practice field on Wednesday at 3:30 p.m., for the fourth of 15 spring sessions. They will go again on Friday, at 3:30 p.m., Saturday, at 11:00 a.m., and Sunday, at 3:30 p.m. A make-up date from last weeks cancelled practice still has not been established, but Johnson and his staff are currently considering two practices on Saturday, April 6.
