Alabama player out with medical problem

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TUSCALOOSA, Ala., July 18 (UPI) -- Alabama linebacker Ezekiel Knight has been medically disqualified from participating in the 2008 season because of an undisclosed medical condition.

Alabama Coach Nick Saban said student privacy laws prevented him from disclosing Knight's medical problem when the senior linebacker was dropped, but the Press-Regoister newspaper in Mobile, Ala.), reported Friday that Knight has a history of heart trouble.

The 6-foot-4 inch, 235-pounder from Wedowee, Ala., played in all 13 Crimson Tide games last season, compiling 64 tackles -- 11 for loss -- two interceptions and three sacks.

"Zeke is a fine young man and we appreciate all that he has done for this program," Saban said on the school's Web site. "Zeke did a great job for us as a starter last year and, more importantly, is on track to graduate in August. After consulting with the doctors and medical staff on numerous occasions, it was concluded that it was in his best interest to no longer play football."