You can add LSU’s two best defensive players to the list of opt-outs for the already-depleted Tigers’ Texas Bowl appearance on Jan. 4 against Kansas State.

Linebacker Damon Clark, the unquestioned leader of that defense who wears the coveted No. 18, joined defensive tackle Neil Farrell in announcing on social media Wednesday that he won’t be playing.

Both easily enjoyed the best seasons of their careers this year and no doubt greatly enhanced their NFL draft positions.

Previously LSU, which was already missing numerous players to injuries, lost starting quarterback Max Johnson and wide receivers Deion Smith and Trey Palmer to the NCAA transfer portal.

Clark’s post never specifically said he was not playing in the bowl, but he went through the usual “thank you’s” to teammates, coaches and fans before saying he was looking forward to the “next chapter.”

Clark led the nation with 135 tackles and was second in the SEC with 15 tackles for loss.

Farrell was arguably the Tigers’ most consistently disruptive force in the defensive interior with 45 tackles and two sacks.

He was more definitive about his future.

“I will not be playing in the bowl game,” he posted on social media. “I’ve decided that it’s best that I start my pre-draft process. Much love to the University.”

Farrell is scheduled to play in the East-West Shrine all-star game in January, a showcase for the NFL draft.