OSU redshirt-senior defensive lineman Kosta Karageorge Credit: OSU Athletics

OSU redshirt-senior defensive lineman Kosta Karageorge
Credit: OSU Athletics

Ohio State football coach Urban Meyer released a statement Friday afternoon praising the hard work of senior defensive lineman Kosta Karageorge — who was reported missing Thursday morning — and asking for anyone with knowledge of his whereabouts to come forward.

“Our thoughts continue to be with the family of Kosta Karageorge and we pray that he is safe and that he is found soon,” Meyer said in his statement. “He is a young man who joined the football team in August and was a hard worker on the field and pleasant off the field. He has been an important player in practice for us, right up until the time he was reported missing. If anyone knows anything about his whereabouts, please help his family and contact the authorities.”

According to a Facebook post from Karageorge’s mother, the player — who also wrestled at OSU — was last seen at about 2 a.m. on Wednesday. The post explained that Karageorge’s family had traced his phone to the Grandview area of Columbus.

The OSU release containing Meyer’s statement also had a statement from team physician Dr. Jim Borchers.

According to a report by The Columbus Dispatch, Karageorge’s sister, Sophia Karageorge, said the family was concerned he might have been suffering from symptoms  related to concussions.

In his statement, Borchers said he was unable to comment on Kosta Karageorge’s health, but reinforced his confidence in OSU’s medical practices.

“First and foremost, our primary concern is for health, safety and welfare of Kosta,” Borchers said in his statement. “While we are not able to discuss or comment about the medical care regarding our student-athletes, we are confident in our medical procedures and policies to return athletes to participation following injury or illness.”

A tweet sent from Karageorge’s personal Twitter account (@kostadinos81) provided a number to contact with any information about where he might be.

“Kosta was last seen around 2 am November 26. His family is asking for prayers & any info regarding his whereabouts.Please call: 614-747-1729,” the tweet said.

Karageorge was listed by OSU among 24 seniors set to be honored during the Buckeyes’ matchup with Michigan on Saturday, marking the last game of their regular season and their last game of the season at Ohio Stadium. Kickoff is set for noon.