It has now been confirmed that Texas A&M starting quarterback Max Johnson sustained a rib injury after the loss to Ole Miss, as head coach Jimbo Fisher confirmed the news on Monday afternoon during the Aggies’ Monday press conference. This is Johnson’s second major injury as a program member after breaking his hand during his second start in 2022. However, Fisher stated that he “plans to play” Johnson vs. Mississippi State this Saturday despite the injury
“Max was able to finish the game, was a couple off tough shots, but we’ll wait and see how it goes. But he should be good. I’m planning on him playing and hopefully we’ll see as it goes day-by-day.”
Johnson had endured more pressure than any Aggie quarterback in quite some time due to the continuous poor play on the offensive line. Even though Saturday’s 38-35 road loss to Ole Miss showed improved play, especially in pass protection, Johnson still took several body blows, while one of the results of the final hit had him writhing in pain during the Aggies final drive.
Stepping in for injured quarterback Conner Weigman during the Aggies’ Week 4 win over Auburn, the Aggie’s O-line continued to decline during SEC play, as Johnson would continue to find through minor injuries week to week, but after sustaining 11 QB hits in the loss to Tennessee, it became borderline painful to watch the veteran southpaw have to prepare week to week for another painful outing.
So far this season, Johnson has accumulated with 1,452, 9 touchdowns, five interceptions, and 62.9 QBR in five starts in nine games. The Aggies will now likely start former Fresno State QB Jaylen Henderson, who is currently listed as Johnson’s backup, while freshman QB Marcel Reed is also in the mix if Johnson isn’t able to go.
Texas A&M will return to Kyle Field to take on Mississippi State on Saturday, Nov. 11 at 6:30 pm. CT. The game will air on ESPN2.
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