UNC football QB carted off after knee injury

Editor’s note: This story has been updated from a previous version.

North Carolina quarterback Max Johnson left the Tar Heels‘ 2024 season opener vs. Minnesota with an apparent knee injury.

Johnson, who started the game for Mack Brown’s UNC squad, exited the game with 3:06 left in the third quarter. At the time he exited the game, he had completed 12 of 19 passes for 71 yards and an interception, though he did have a rushing touchdown.

REQUIRED READING:UNC quarterback Max Johnson injured vs Minnesota

Following his injury, Johnson was placed on a cart and exited the game to a standing ovation from UNC fans and Minnesota fans alike in Minneapolis. Brock Huard, calling the UNC-Minnesota game on Fox, was also empathetic toward Johnson’s mother as her son left the game.

Following Johnson’s injury, Conner Harrell took over in his stead. Here’s what to know of his injury:

Max Johnson injury update

This section will be updated.

Johnson was carted off the field in the third quarter of Thursday’s game vs. Minnesota and did not return.

Speaking after the game, Brown spoke to Johnson’s injury, saying he doesn’t yet know what his diagnosis or prognosis is. He said in the Fox postgame interview that he preferred team doctors inform players and their parents first.

Later, Brown told assembled reporters that he still did not know the status of Johnson’s injury, saying he was at the hospital with his parents.

What happened to Max Johnson?

Johnson’s injury occurred on a play in which two Minnesota defenders attempted to sack him in the pocket. As he threw the ball away, his right knee appeared to give as he fell to the turf.

Here is a video of Johnson’s injury. (Warning: graphic video content).