University of North Carolina Tar Heels center Max Johnson's first season came to an abrupt end on Thursday.
During the third quarter of North Carolina's season opener against Minnesota, Johnson lay on the turf for several minutes clutching his leg. He was eventually helped off the field with the aid of a cart and was subsequently taken to a hospital.
The University of North Carolina confirmed Friday that Johnson had undergone medical treatment in Minneapolis. The university also said Johnson plans to return to North Carolina in the coming days.
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North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Max Johnson holds his knee after being tackled during the second half of a game against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Huntington Bank Stadium on Aug. 29, 2024, in Minneapolis. (Matt Krohn/USA Today Sports)
Johnson is expected to make a full recovery, but the injury will sideline him for the remainder of the 2024 season. ESPN reported..
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Connor Harrell, who played for the Tar Heels in last season's bowl game after Drake Maye entered the draft, led the team the rest of the way in a 19-17 win at Minnesota and is expected to take over the starting role for the Sept. 7 home game against Charlotte.
University of North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Max Johnson (14) celebrates a rushing touchdown during the first half of a game against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Huntington Bank Stadium on Aug. 29, 2024 in Minneapolis. (Matt Krohn/USA Today Sports)
Johnson, the son of former NFL quarterback Brad Johnson, transferred from Texas A&M University and took the starting spot over Harrell, replacing No. 3 overall NFL draft pick Drake Maye.
But Johnson was injured in the second half when he was taken to the ground by a hard-hitting charge from Justin Worley and his leg was bent awkwardly.
North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Max Johnson throws a pass during the first half of a game against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Huntington Bank Stadium on Aug. 29, 2024, in Minneapolis. (Matt Krohn/USA Today Sports)
North Carolina head coach Mack Brown spoke about Johnson's injury after the game.
“It's a shame Max got hurt for him and for us. Connor [has] You have to come,” Brown said.
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Johnson, a fifth-year quarterback who began his two-year career at Louisiana State, completed 12 of 19 passes for 71 yards and one interception and ran for a score. After the game, the team awarded Johnson the game ball.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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