CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WTVD) — Nearly a year after suffering one of the most gruesome injuries in college football, North Carolina quarterback Max Johnson is officially back.
Johnson was cleared for full participation just ahead of UNC’s fall camp, marking a miraculous return from a broken right femur suffered in last season’s opener against Minnesota, which left his football future — and even his ability to ever walk again in question.
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“There was a point in time where I thought I was going to lose my leg,” Johnson said on Saturday. “I’m fully recovered now, 100% healthy, running, back to where I was… I just want to praise God for finally putting me in this position.”
Johnson detailed months of recovery and rehab in Saturday’s media availability. He took his first steps post-injury in October and is now fully cleared for fall camp.
Under first-year head coach Bill Belichick, the Tar Heels are expected to have an open competition at quarterback, with Johnson, South Alabama transfer Gio Lopez, and talented freshman Bryce Baker vying for the job.
“I’ve talked to Coach Belichick, Coach Kitchens, the best man is gonna play, and whoever that is, I know Coach Belichick is going to make the best decision. I’m just blessed to be here, be able to compete, it just feels good to be able to do it again,” Johnson said.
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