Auburn’s LaDarius Owens likely out for remainder of spring practice

One of Auburn’s starting defensive ends LaDarius Owens is likely out for the remainder of spring with a foot injury.

Owens is currently sporting a boot on his right foot, and the Auburn staff won’t push him to return this spring, according to AL.com.

“At this time, probably not,” Auburn coach Gus Malzahn said. “He’s a veteran guy, though. We kind of know what we’re getting with him. Give these other guys a chance.”

Gus Malzahn has it right; Owens doesn’t need spring practice, and more reps for players like Carl Lawson and Elijah Daniel could be even more beneficial than the reps Owens would take.

Owens recorded 28 tackles and 4.5 tackles for loss in 2013’s championship run.

Practice Notes:

Linebacker JaViere Mitchell has missed time with an injury, although Kris Frost thinks Mitchell will return this spring.

Backup linebacker Anthony Swain is not practicing with the team, but it’s unclear whether it’s an injury or not. Malzahn said he’ll be able to get into more details about Swain’s status in the ‘next couple of weeks’.

Malzahn confirmed that safety Trent Fisher left the team after the 2013 season and is not with the team.

Defensive tackles Montravius Adams and Gabe Wright are both getting work at defensive end. Because of the experience and returners on the interior line, tackles are helping provide depth on the outside.

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