Reports: LSU's Neil Farrell expected to opt back in, play in 2020

The Athletic's Brody Miller reported on Monday that LSU defensive lineman Neil Farrell has returned to team facilities and is planning to play in the 2020 college season after he opted out on Aug. 8 due to concerns related to the coronavirus pandemic. 

Farrell's grandmother was hospitalized at the time he announced his decision. 

Farrell, a senior, tallied three sacks, 46 total tackles, seven tackles for a loss, and one forced fumble during the 2019 campaign, per ESPN's Adam Rittenberg. 

Charlie Campbell of Walter Football forecasts Farrell could be as high as a third-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. Campbell added: 

"Ferrell was a rotational defender for LSU with only three starts as a junior, but he flashed athletic ability with pass-rush potential and was a solid run defender. With Rashard Lawrence moving onto the NFL, Farrell should be a starter as a senior. If he can increase his pass-rush production, he could rise."

LSU begins its season versus Mississippi State on Sept. 26.