Max Johnson’s 2024 season came to an abrupt end after suffering a broken leg in North Carolina’s Week 1 win over Minnesota. However, the senior intends to return to the Tar Heels for one more season. He told ESPN’s Pete Thamel on Friday.
“These past eight days have been very tough and it’s taken a lot for me to get to the other side and begin the recovery process,” Johnson said in a statement to ESPN. “I want to thank Dr. Templeman and his team, the nurses and support staff at Hennepin County Medical Center, who took incredible care of me.”
“It’s going to be tough to sit on the sidelines, but I still have a lot of football left in me and I know I’ll be back playing next year,” he added after thanking the University of Minnesota doctors, UNC head coach Mack Brown, and his staff, coaches, family and friends. “In the meantime, I’ll be there every day supporting my teammates and helping out as much as I can. I appreciate all the love and support from the fans. #GoHeels.”
Johnson underwent surgery on Aug. 30, after the previous day’s game, and has remained in Minneapolis while he recovers. According to Brown, Johnson will participate in team activities once he returns to Chapel Hill and can travel with the team to be on the sidelines when he is cleared.
Conner Harrell takes over as the Tar Heels’ starter after being surpassed by Johnson. As Drake Maye’s backup last season, he appeared in five games (including starting Duke’s Mayo Bowl against West Virginia) and threw for 278 yards and two touchdowns on 67 percent passing accuracy.
Next season will be Johnson’s sixth in college football. He played his first two years at LSU before transferring to Texas A&M. After a coaching change in College Station, Johnson left for North Carolina with two years of eligibility remaining. Whether or not he applies for a seventh year of eligibility may depend on how he does next season.
During his college career, Johnson has thrown for 5,923 yards and 47 touchdowns against 13 interceptions, while completing 61% of his passes.
North Carolina (1-0) hosts Charlotte (0-1) for its Week 2 matchup with tip-off from Chapel Hill at 3:30 p.m. ET.