We already knew that Tyler Friday could miss the entire 2021 season, but now we know why.
During his radio show on 97.1 The Fan on Tuesday, Day revealed that Friday suffered a torn ACL while working out on his own this offseason. While Day had previously said that Friday would miss at least most of the season, he indicated Tuesday that Friday will not play at all this year.
A fourth-year senior, Friday is eligible to take a redshirt and return in 2022. Day indicated that Friday will be back with the Buckeyes next season and that Friday is expected to make a full recovery in time to play next year.
“It was a tough break for him in the preseason, kind of a freak thing, just out doing some drills on his own and just one of those things,” Day said. “We’re obviously happy that he’s gonna be back for another year, but it’s gonna be a long year for recovery.
“He’s been very, very positive. He’s the big brother of J.T. (Tuimoloau) so he’s taken that role on, and it’s part of the game unfortunately nowadays. It is an ACL, and along the lines, an ACL used to be something where your career was done. Now as we know, it’s part of the game almost. And he’s gonna recover well, and our people will take great care of him, and we look forward to having him back next year.”
Friday's injury was a hit to Ohio State's experience on the defensive line, but the Buckeyes still have a trio of experienced defensive ends in Zach Harrison, Tyreke Smith and Javontae Jean-Baptiste who are expected to lead the way at the position. Five-star freshmen Jack Sawyer and J.T. Tuimoloau are also expected to see immediate playing time.
