Michigan running back Drake Johnson tore his left ACL while scoring a touchdown against Ohio State on Saturday. It is the second time in as many seasons Johnson injured his left ACL.
Johnson tore his left ACL on special teams coverage in the 2013 season opener against Central Michigan, forcing him to sit out the remainder of the season before it ever really got started. Johnson went through the rehab process and was able to return to the running back stable in time for the 2014 season. He appeared in all 12 games for Michigan this season, finishing the year third on the team in rushing with 361 yards and four touchdowns. The highlight of Johnson’s 2014 season may have been his 122-yard and two touchdown performance against Indiana, a 34-10 victory on November 1.
Johnson became a bigger part of the running game in the second half of the season following an injury to Derrick Green. Green broke his clavicle to keep him out for Michigan’s final six games, providing Johnson a chance to contribute alongside De’Veon Smith, Michigan’s leading rusher at the end of the season.
The timeline for Johnson’s next rehab is unknown at this time. Being ready for the start of the 2015 season may not be out of the question with today’s rehab procedures and treatments, although this injury very likely prevents him from participating in spring football practices.