Redshirt freshman linebacker Cedrick Cooper is out indefinitely with a torn ACL, defensive coordinator Lorenzo Ward said.

Cooper left Wednesday’s practice with a knee injury.

He played in 11 games this season, mostly on special teams. He had one tackle but was expected to be in the running for a starting job next year after the Gamecocks’ four senior linebackers depart.

He could be ready for the 2013 season after a full rehabilitation.

Cooper is from Lithonia, Ga.

- Chris Dearing