Akial Byers, Missouri’s top-rated signee, injures knee during camp

Fall camp serves a purpose, but that doesn’t mean it comes without downfalls.

That was made clear on Thursday when Missouri defensive lineman, Akial Byers, injured his left knee.

Byers was the highest-rated signee of the Tigers’ latest recruiting class. He originally intended to sign with Alabama after being rated as the No. 1 overall prospect in the state of Arkansas.

Mizzou DE Akial Byers out 3 weeks with sprained left knee.

— Dave Matter (@Dave_Matter) August 24, 2017

The good news for both Byers and the Missouri football team is that the injury is only a sprain. As the tweet from Dave Matter references, the timetable for his return is 3 weeks, meaning he will miss the opening game against Missouri State on Sept. 2nd. In addition, it’s unclear whether or not he will be available for the game against South Carolina the following week on Sept. 9th.

It’s a big blow to the Tigers’ depth along the defensive front — or, it will be to start the season. Byers, a former 4-star prospect according to 247Sports, was Missouri’s top overall signee in the 2017 recruiting class. At 6-4, 290 pounds, he has the size and athleticism to play end or tackle in Missouri’s 4-3 defense.

Clint Lamb

Clint helps cover the SEC West for Saturday Down South. His work can also be found on USA TODAY Sports, The 'Bama Beat podcast and The Bullpen with TonyMac and The Lamb. Previous stops include SEC Country, 247Sports and Touchdown Alabama Magazine.