Today, bad news struck for Notre Dame — star defensive tackle Louis Nix will miss the remainder of the season (including a bowl) with a torn meniscus. Nix had surgery on Thursday, officially eliminating any chance of a return to the field in 2013 (he had missed significant practice time lately). Brian Kelly announced the news following today’s practice:

Louis Nix is done for the year at #NotreDame. He had surgery on a torn meniscus Thursday. — Dan Murphy (@BGI_DanMurphy) November 21, 2013

It will be interesting to see if this affects Nix’s decision to either go to the NFL or remain at Notre Dame for a fifth year. Fighting Irish fans will certainly be hoping for one more year with their lovable defensive leader.