When LaRon Byrd went down with a knee injury a little over a week ago, it was reported that the Miami wide receiver was doubtful for the Hurricanes’ season opener and could perhaps be unavailable even further into the year.
Thursday, that pessimism turned to optimism.
Byrd has since returned to practice since a scare that turned out to be nothing more than a bruised knee, and yesterday seemed to indicate that all systems will be go for the Sept. 2 opener against Florida A&M. While it turned out to be a minor issue, Byrd was nonetheless fearful of not knowing the exact extent of the injury.
“It was very scary,” he said. “I had never been injured in my life throughout football. And when that happens, the first thing that goes in your head is, ‘It’s over. It’s over.’ I prayed and trusted in my coaches and trusted in my training room staff and they got me back out ready.”
Byrd’s 33 receptions were second on the team on the team last year, while his 460 yards were third.