Veteran running back John Emery Jr.’s sixth season came to a disappointing early end in the opener against USC as he suffered a campaign-ending torn ACL for the second year in a row.
While Emery could potentially apply for another medical redshirt and a seventh season, coach [autotag]Brian Kelly[/autotag] has implied that the former five-star recruit will instead explore his future outside of football.
Still, Emery remains a part of the 2024 Tigers team, and on the SEC coaches teleconference Wednesday, Kelly said that now that Emery has recovered enough to be back around the team. He said he would like Emery to be involved in meetings as a resource and leader for younger players.
“Nothing yet. He is now able to be around the team,” Kelly said, per On3. “The surgery itself required some medical attention and then getting around on crutches without any pain. He was here yesterday. He will begin to travel with us in our next travel. We’re ready to get him back with us in the meeting room to help some of the younger players because he can be a great asset for us.
“Generally, after the surgeries, we give the guys time to get their academics back in order. In John’s situation, he’s taking graduate classes. But more importantly, they got to be pain-free and be able to get around the building because they’re on crutches. Usually takes a week or two and he’s now past that window. He’ll begin to start attending meetings and be a great mentor for those younger guys.”
While Emery’s future as it relates to football remains murky, he can still be a factor in helping his team as he recovers.
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