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Tampa, Florida: Missouri coach says injured RB cleared

PUBLISHED Jul 20, 2026, 3:01 PM ET

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TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- Missouri running back Ahmad Hardy has been medically cleared to prepare for the upcoming college football season after suffering a gunshot wound to his leg in May, coach Eli Drinkwitz said Monday. Speaking at SEC Media Days in Tampa, Florida, Drinkwitz confirmed that medical staff had cleared Hardy to resume preparations and indicated the player is on track to participate with the team as it readies for the new season. The coach did not provide additional specifics about the nature of the injury or the circumstances of the shooting, but framed the update as a positive development for both Hardy and the program. TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- Drinkwitz also used the announcement to address broader concerns about gun violence in the United States, particularly its impact on young people. He stressed that his remarks were not a criticism of law enforcement or of the constitutional right to bear arms guaranteed by the Second Amendment, but said there is no place for gun violence in American communities. The coach underscored that message in the context of Hardy’s experience, saying incidents involving firearms and youth remain a serious issue and that the sport’s high-profile stage can be used to call attention to the problem. Further details about the shooting incident were not immediately disclosed.

By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

May 2025 Missouri running back Ahmad Hardy shot
May 2025 Gunshot wound impacts Hardy's leg
Following days Hardy begins medical treatment
Following weeks Rehabilitation progresses as expected
Monday Coach Drinkwitz speaks at SEC Media Days
Monday Drinkwitz confirms Hardy medically cleared
Monday Coach denounces youth gun violence nationally
Upcoming season Hardy expected to resume football preparations

News Intelligence

This story hits home on two fronts: sports and safety. If you're a college football fan, Hardy's return is good news. But the underlying issue of gun violence, especially among youth, is a concern for everyone. Check local initiatives on gun safety education in your community.

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