Fort Drum, N.Y. —  Beckett Wales was not in pads and did not participate in Syracuse’s practice at Fort Drum on Wednesday afternoon. The tight end watched from the sideline and had ice wrapped around his calf during a portion of practice.

On Tuesday, coach Scott Shafer was asked about his depth at the tight end position. He acknowledged that the team’s second and third options have not yet emerged.

“There’s good things going on with that group, but really no solid two or three yet,” Shafer said. “I think we’re letting them fight that thing out. It’s still early enough.”

That was before the loss of the clear-cut starting tight end. Last season, Wales caught 35 passes for 389 yards, including two touchdowns.

Linebacker Josh Kirkland was also out of pads for the third straight practice on Wednesday. Defensive lineman Tyler Marona and tackle Kyle Knapp were also not present at practice. On Tuesday, Shafer wouldn’t confirm or deny whether they made the trip to Fort Drum with the team.