Gabriel Reliford upgraded to probable for Texas game

LSU defensive end Gabriel Reliford is listed as probable for Saturday’s home finale against Texas after tearing his ACL during spring practice. Reliford has not played in 2026, and the expectation had been that he would miss the entire regular season.

Any return would give LSU another option along the defensive front, though Reliford would need to work back into game shape after going two years without being fully healthy. His probable designation does not guarantee that he will play.

Linebacker Whit Weeks is questionable after being listed as doubtful last week. He was injured against Texas A&M and will be seven weeks removed from the injury by Saturday. Weeks is out of his boot, but LSU is taking a cautious approach because he has injured the same leg twice before.

Texas coach Steve Sarkisian said he is preparing as though Weeks will return to LSU’s lineup. The Tigers had hoped to get Weeks back before the regular season ended, and three games remain.

Starting right tackle Weston Davis is listed as probable after leaving the Alabama game with a lower-leg injury. Davis was seen leaving Tiger Stadium on crutches, while Sean Thompkins replaced him for the final 30 snaps of the loss.

Kiffin said Thompkins struggled at times in difficult matchups against Alabama. He also credited Thompkins with doing some good things. Thompkins’ previous playing and starting experience gives Kiffin confidence if the tackle is needed again, he added.

Texas will be without running back Hollywood Smothers for the remainder of the year. Raleek Brown, already the Longhorns’ leading rusher, is expected to handle most of the work, with another back taking on a larger role behind him. Texas also listed Trevor Goosby, Nick Townsend and Richard Wesley as out, while Hero Kanu is questionable.

Why it matters

Reliford’s possible return could add another defensive-front option for LSU after he was expected to miss the regular season. Weeks’ status affects the linebacker group, while Davis’ availability matters against the Texas pass rush.

What to watch next

LSU’s availability updates through the week will clarify whether Weeks, Davis and Reliford can play Saturday against Texas.