Missouri Football Star Ahmad Hardy Nearing Return After Offseason Shooting
Running back Ahmad Hardy, who led the SEC in rushing yards in 2025, is expected to see limited carries in his first game action since being shot in Mississippi.
Missouri football player Ahmad Hardy is slated to return to the field on Saturday, five months after sustaining a gunshot wound at a Mississippi rap concert. The 20-year-old running back, who led the Southeastern Conference in rushing yards in 2025, was injured during the offseason, weeks after the birth of his son.
ESPN insider Pete Thamel reported Thursday that Hardy has completed his rehabilitation and is ready for game action. While Hardy will not start, he is expected to receive a limited number of carries. He returned to practice this week and has been increasing his preparation for full health.
According to a May report from the Kansas City Star, the incident occurred at the Kamakazy Biker Club in Laurel, Mississippi, when a crowd gathered in the parking lot following a concert. Gunfire erupted suddenly.
Laurel police Sgt. Macon Davis stated that Hardy was believed to be a passenger in a vehicle attempting to leave the scene when he was shot in the leg. Davis described the situation as "mass chaos" due to multiple vehicles trying to exit simultaneously, noting that Hardy was shot while already inside a car.
Missouri coaches had previously indicated that Hardy had received medical clearance to resume football activities. However, his return to play has taken longer than anticipated.
The Tigers currently hold a 5-2 record for the season. They were ranked in the AP Top 25 following last week's loss to No. 12 Ole Miss. Hardy's return is seen as a significant boost to the team's offense, though the extent of his involvement remains to be determined.
Missouri is scheduled to play unranked Arkansas on the road this week, followed by a home game against Texas on November 7. Last season, Hardy rushed for 1,649 yards and scored 16 touchdowns, helping the Tigers achieve an 8-5 record and an appearance in the Gator Bowl.