Braxton Deaver out for season

Duke Blue Devils starting tight end Braxton Deaver is out for the season after tearing his ACL on Monday, the latest setback to the defending ACC Coastal Division champs.

Deaver was injured during practice Monday morning, and an MRI confirmed the injury. He is the second Duke starter in a week to be lost for the season with a torn ACL, joining starting middle linebacker Kelby Brown.

The third-team All-ACC selection had 46 receptions for 600 yards and four touchdowns in 2013. Deaver was suspended to start fall practice for undisclosed reasons and had returned to camp less than two weeks ago.

"This certainly seems redundant after Kelby's injury last week, but again our thoughts and prayers lie with Braxton and his family with this news," Duke coach David Cutcliffe said in a statement. "While we'll miss his presence on the field, the priorities with Braxton right now shift to his health and spirit. We do know that Braxton will continue to be a valued member of our program going forward."

Duke has now lost four key contributors off its record-setting 2013 team: Deaver, Brown, starting running back Jela Duncan (academics), who led the team in rush attempts last season, and quarterback Brandon Connette (transfer), who led the team with 27 total touchdowns a year ago.

Took me tearing my ACL to get 1,000 followers. Lol. Thank you everyone for your support and words you have no idea how much it has meant.

- Braxton Deaver (@TheDeavo89) August 18, 2014