LSU starting defensive tackle Neil Farrell Jr. has taken advantage of the NCAA waiver granted making all 2020 seniors eligible to return for an extra year of eligibility.
Farrell announced on New Year’s Eve he’s coming back in 2021 for his sixth year as a Tiger.
Farrell was LSU’s 11th leading tackler with 25 tackles, 2½ tackles for loss and a sack. The Mobile, Alabama, native started in six games and played in all 10 games.
A year ago as a defensive end for 2019 national champions, he had 46 tackles, seven tackles for a loss and three sacks.
On Aug. 8, he opted out of this past season because he had family members that dealt with the coronavirus over the offseason. He said he was opting out but would return in 2021.
A month later, he tweeted “My grandmother is getting better each and every day & I thank God for that ….. I miss football ….” He returned to the team after being voted back on by his teammates, although there was a debate by some players to allow him to return.
Neil, thank you so much for coming back to LSU for the 2021 season. LSU’S defense should be great in 2021. With you having 25 tackles, 16 solo tackles, 9 assisted, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble, 1 pass deflection, LSU is blessed to have you return. With the love of GOD in your heart as strong as it is and your dedication, you will help LSU to be a superior defense in the world of college football. As I previous stated with LSU’S defense having 9 turnovers in the last 2 games it is just of sign of the greatness to come for LSU in 2021. All year you kept your faith and kept on believing when some fans doubted, you stayed strong in your faith and commitment to LSU and your teammates. With you being the man you are, full of faith, your love for GOD, your family, and teammates, nothing is going to stop you or get in your way of becoming one of the best players on defense for LSU. Geaux TIGERS !!!