Michigan State’s defense took yet another hit on Friday.

Sophomore defensive back/receiver Kaleel Gaines is no longer with the program, MSU confirmed to MLive.com.

That news came to light after @JucoFootballAce tweeted that Gaines was leaving the Spartans to enroll at Arizona Western Community College.

Gaines has three years of eligibility left after redshirting as a true freshman and playing in one game as a redshirt freshman in 2016.

There was hope, however, that Gaines would fill a versatile role for the Spartans in the future. He played both ways in the spring game as a cornerback and receiver, and Mark Dantonio praised his versatility.

It’s unknown what led to the departure of the former three-star recruit. But for a defensive unit that lost a lot this offseason, it’s another frustrating development.

The Spartans have to replace the likes of Malik McDowell, Riley Bullough, Montae Nicholson, Jon Reschke, Demetrious Cox and more.