The injury bug has been nice to Texas early on in fall camp. No significant injuries have occurred, keeping Steve Sarkisian’s squad fresh before the season opener against Louisiana.
However, one of the Longhorns’ projected top offensive players will be missing some practice time.
Joshua Moore did not participate in Wednesday’s practice due to a shoulder injury. According to Texas, the wide receiver is listed as day-to-day, hoping to get back on the field as soon as possible.
Dealing with injuries is nothing new for Moore. He suffered a knee injury against TCU last season and then a shoulder injury against Oklahoma State. Despite the setbacks, Moore was able to have a solid season on paper.
Being the leading receiver last season, Moore hauled in 30 receptions for 472 yards and nine touchdowns. If the 2021 season were to start today, he is expected to be one of the starters.
Texas WR Joshua Moore did not practice Wednesday with a shoulder injury, per UT. He is listed as day to day.
— Brian Davis (@BDavisAAS) August 11, 2021
Being able to gain weight has been a big part of Moore’s offseason, now weighing in at 176 pounds.
“I’ve always been the smallest player on the field my whole life,” said Moore. “It’s just about your heart in my opinion.”
After playing last season 12 pounds lighter, Moore is ready to play in Sarkisian’s offense. He knows how well the head coach can scheme wide receivers into good positions.
“What makes [Sarkisian’s offense] so unique, every receiver that runs a route, no matter what defense they play, somebody will be open.”
Once the shoulder is healthy, Moore should be back on the practice field with the first team. Working with both Casey Thompson and Hudson Card every day, he should be a major factor in helping Texas decide the starting spot. However, he credits the quarterbacks for early camp success.
“Both of them sling the rock,” Moore said. “They make us look good. It’s not that we make them look good. If you come to practice, you’ll see for yourself. They’re putting it right where it needs to be, and it’s a strong battle right now.”
With Texas’ scrimmage scheduled for Saturday, Moore’s status will be one of the things to keep an eye out for.