Texas A&M linebacker Anthony Hines opts out of 2020 season

Just six days before Texas A&M opens its football season, junior linebacker Anthony Hines announced via Twitter that he’s opting out.

Hines cited concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic and social justice issues for his decision.

Hines tweeted: “The last year has been a wild ride to say the least. With everything taking place in the world right now, from the pandemic, to the blatant injustices being committed towards people of color, it’s difficult to be 100% locked in to the game of football right now. I can’t help but see this time as an opportunity to try & make a difference in my community. With that being said, I have chosen to opt out of the 2020 football season.”

The timing of the announcement is surprising because A&M’s season is scheduled to begin on Saturday at 6:30 p.m. at Kyle Field against Vanderbilt.

The linebacker position was projected as an area of strength with Hines and linebacker Buddy Johnson returning as starters. Instead, it becomes a position of concern. Hines’ slot figures to be filled by either senior Aaron Hansford or sophomore Andre White.

In backup roles last season, both posted 15 tackles. Hansford was credited with 3 tackles for loss and White with 2.5.

A four-star prospect and top recruit from in A&M’s 2017 recruiting class, Hines was named to the SEC All-Freshman team that year after accumulating 33 tackles and 3 sacks.

He appeared in just one game in 2018 before sustaining a knee injury that prematurely ended his season.

However, he came back strong last season to post 73 tackles, which was the second-highest total on the team.

Hines is the fifth A&M player to opt out. Receiver Jhamon Ausbon, cornerback Elijah Blades, safety Derrick Tucker and quarterback James Foster have also declined to play this season.