Alabama Tight End Josh Ford Faces Season-Ending Lower-Body Injury
The junior from Oklahoma played through a broken arm last month before suffering a new injury in Saturday's victory over LSU.
By Pedro Barnes ·
Alabama tight end Josh Ford is expected to miss the remainder of the college football season with a lower-body injury, head coach Kalen DeBoer announced Monday.
The injury occurred during the Crimson Tide's victory over LSU on Saturday. Ford had previously played with a broken arm sustained last month. He is a junior from Stillwater, Oklahoma, who has served as a physical asset in the running game and a consistent target in the passing attack.
DeBoer acknowledged the team's reliance on Ford's physical play. "The guy is so tough. I mean, I know he’s probably right now trying to figure out how he’s still going to play this year, just who he is," DeBoer said. "His impact has been really key for our football team in a lot of ways."
Ford has recorded five receptions for 41 yards and two touchdowns this season. One of those scores was the go-ahead touchdown against LSU. DeBoer described Ford as a uniter and leader who is deeply valued by the squad.
The coach stated the team must find ways to compensate for Ford's absence. "We’re going to have to find ways to make up the gap that he leaves with him not being with us," DeBoer said. "I think our team just loves him to death. I know I do as well. He’ll do everything he can to get back as soon as possible."
Alabama plays its final regular-season road game on Saturday against Vanderbilt in Nashville. Kickoff is set for 11:45 a.m.
