Carl Lawson missing half the season 'would be optimistic'

AUBURN -- As expected, the Tigers are going to be without their top return pass rusher for at least half the season.

Appearing on SiriusXM's College Sports Nation on Monday, Auburn defensive coordinator Ellis Johnson said it would be "optimistic" to think sophomore Carl Lawson, who is recovering from ACL surgery, could be back by the second half of the season.

"(The defensive line) would have been, I think, just as strong as it was last year if not better," Johnson said. "We lost Carl Lawson at the very end of spring practice to a knee and we don't know when we're going to get him back. It's been a remarkable rehab and recovery. He's way ahead of schedule, but I would say half a season would be optimistic."

Lawson had 20 tackles with four sacks as a true freshman last season. His absence, along with the departure of Dee Ford has created a massive void in Auburn's pass rush heading into this season.

"I think that we've got some guys who can step up," Johnson said. "We've moved Montravius Adams out to defensive end. He's 315 pounds but he's got a great first step, he's very athletic. Gabe Wright's been working both inside and outside. He's not as good a pass rusher as Montravius but he gives us a big body out there at 290 pounds."

With seniors Jeff Whitaker, Ben Bradley, Angelo Blackson, LaDarius Owens and Wright returning, along with Adams, Elijah Daniel and junior college transfers DaVonte Lambert and Devaroe Lawrence, Auburn is very deep along the defensive line.

"I think it's going to be one of our strong points of our defense," Johnson said.