Missouri Tigers: update on injured Mizzou running-back Henry Josey

February 22, 2012|Chris Replogle, KY3 News | Twitter @ky3tigertalk or on Facebook @KYTV TigerTalk

COLUMBIA, Mo. - Even with a bum knee, Henry Josey is working harder than he ever has.

The sophomore running-back is recovering this off-season after tearing his ACL at the end of last season. The injury ended a breakout year for the Angleton, Texas native. Now, he's working to return to the field.

"He's doing tremendous on his rehab," said Missouri Tigers offensive coordinator David Yost. "He is working as hard in there as our guys working in the weight room to get himself back."

Josey' 116 yards per game on the ground helped the Tigers lead the Big 12 Conference as a team in rushing. He also scored nine touchdowns. Josey led the Big 12 Conference in rushing through the first ten games, before his injury against Texas.

The tailback still has to have one final surgery on that torn ACL. The training staff is working to get the knee to move 90 degrees. When that progression is finished, surgery will follow. Time is ticking, but Mizzou coaches do not want to rush anything. Mizzou's staff remains optimistic Josey will return before the season. If not, expect him to red-shirt.

"We are going to make sure he is extremely healthy and in the best position to be successful" said Yost. "With a skilled athlete like he is, you want to be at 100 percent so he can achieve and do the things he's capable of doing."

Josey capitalized on his opportunity early last season after the injuries to starting tailback Kendial Lawrence and De'Vion Moore. Mizzou is counting on that depth again if Josey is not ready. Lawrence leads a group of young running-backs for 2012.

"It would be really deep if you sit Henry Josey on top of that list as completely healthy, but I think we are going to be in good shape there," said Yost. "If Henry's back it's a bonus and we will get to just go and attack with him."

Missouri will begin Spring practice March 6. The Black and Gold game is April 14.

|

|

|