Mizzou RB Ahmad Hardy Not Ready For Return Yet

Missouri star running back Ahmad Hardy is expected to miss the start of the 2026 season as he continues his recovery from a gunshot wound suffered earlier this offseason.

According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, Hardy has yet to practice for the Tigers, with mid-September now being targeted for his return.

Hardy was the victim of a shooting at a concert in Mississippi in May. Missouri Athletics announced at the time that Hardy sustained a gunshot wound and underwent surgery in Mississippi before being listed in stable condition.

Shortly after the shooting, Thamel reported there was optimism that Hardy would eventually be able to play football again. Hardy was alert and moving around following surgery, although there was no initial timeline for when he could return to football activities.

Now, nearly three months later, there is a clearer target for his return.

If his rehab continues to progress as hoped, Mizzou could have Hardy back for the September 19th game against Troy in Columbia, Missouri.