Max Johnson, the quarterback for North Carolina, broke his right leg during the team’s 19-17 season-opening victory against Minnesota on Thursday. He will be out for the rest of the year.
Johnson had leg surgery in Minneapolis on Friday, the school announced, and he will be back in Chapel Hill in a few days. Brad and Nikki, his parents, still live with him in Minnesota.
After a close battle with Conner Harrell for the starting position, Johnson—who joined the Tar Heels this past offseason—was declared the winner. Johnson and his offensive line, which had four new starters, both had trouble staying consistent early on against the Golden Gophers.
Johnson dropped back to pass late in the third quarter, but Justin Walley blitzed in from the secondary and sacked him. After landing awkwardly on his right knee, Johnson grasped it right away.
From the grandstand, his parents observed in horrified silence. Former NFL quarterback Brad Johnson started his professional career with the Vikings.
Harrell took Johnson’s place on the pitch when he was carried off.
“I’m sorry Max was harmed, both for him and for us. After the game, coach Mack Brown stated, “Conner [has to] come on.”
Prior to transferring to Texas A&M in 2022, Johnson started his career at LSU in 2020. After an inconsistent career with both programs, he was hoping for a new beginning with the Tar Heels.
Johnson ended up 12-of-19 passing for 71 yards with an interception and a rushing touchdown Thursday night. Harrell, a redshirt sophomore who served as the backup to Maye last season and started the Tar Heels’ bowl game, replaced him and was 2-of-4 for 34 yards. He led the Tar Heels on a late drive that ultimately produced the winning field goal with 1:44 left. The backup quarterback now is Jacolby Criswell, who recently transferred to the Tar Heels from Arkansas after beginning his career at North Carolina.
