EAST LANSING — Fifth-year senior linebacker Ed Davis was lost to a season-ending knee injury in Michigan State’s first preseason practice in full pads Wednesday.

“We’re so disappointed for Ed Davis, and his presence in the lineup will be missed,” Spartan head coach Mark Dantonio said. “Ed is a tremendous playmaker and a solid leader. He will still have an important role on this team, and he might have the opportunity to qualify for a sixth year of eligibility.

“Our program has faced adversity before, so now it’s time to adopt the ‘next man up’ mentality. Ed’s season-ending injury provides others with an opportunity to have a positive impact on this team.”

A post-practice MRI confirmed the injury will require surgery.

A preseason All-Big Ten selection, Davis led the team with 200 production points during the 2014 regular season and ranked fourth on the team, with a career-high 58 tackles. He also finished third on the team in tackles for loss (12 for 48 yards) and sacks (seven for 33 yards).

Davis was also on the watch lists for the Nagurski Award and the Bednarik Award.