North Carolina quarterback Max Johnson left the field during the Tar Heels’ 2024 season opener against Minnesota due to a suspected knee injury.
Johnson started the game for UNC but had to leave with 3:06 remaining in the third quarter. At the time, he had completed 12 of 19 passes for 71 yards and an interception, and had also scored a rushing touchdown.
After his injury, he was taken off the field on a cart, receiving a standing ovation from both UNC and Minnesota fans in Minneapolis. Commentator Brock Huard, who was calling the game for Fox, expressed sympathy for Johnson’s mother as her son departed.
Conner Harrell stepped in to replace Johnson following the injury.
In the postgame, Coach Mack Brown addressed Johnson’s condition but stated he did not yet know the specifics of the diagnosis. He emphasized that he preferred team doctors to inform the players and their families first about any injuries. Later, Brown mentioned to reporters that he was still uncertain about Johnson’s status as he was with the player’s family at the hospital.
The injury happened when two Minnesota defenders attempted to sack Johnson. As he released the ball, his right knee appeared to buckle as he fell to the ground.