Trojans battle injuries, ineligibility
Published 7:51 pm Monday, August 15, 2011
Before hearing one whistle blow in the 2011 football season, Troy seems to have had a year’s worth of injuries.
Linebacker Johnny Thompson and defensive tackle Sidell Corley were forced to walk away from football due to career-ending injuries.
The Trojans also lost Chip Reeves and Jamel Johnson, both of whom were expected to play a large role in replacing Jerrel Jernigan, for academic reasons.
Some Trojans are still recovering from nagging injuries. Guards Kyle Wilborn and Jacob Creech are both expected to start in 2011 but are being eased into action. Wilborn had shoulder surgery in January and ankle surgery in April. After playing in two games last season, Creech’s year was cut short due to shoulder surgery.
Kanorris Davis has struggled with several injuries throughout his short career at Troy but his most recent groin injury should be remedied by season’s start.
Backup quarterback Jamie Hampton was reassured Saturday that his status and the Trojans’ number two man is safe. Both offensive coordinator Kenny Edenfield and quarterbacks coach Sean Reagan mentioned Hampton as starter Corey Robinson’s backup. The senior recovered for a season-ending knee injury in 2008 to return in 2010.
Wide receiver Brett Moncrief, who broke his foot and missed all of spring practice, has been given a question mark for the season opener at Clemson but is expected to return against Arkansas.
Safety Barry Valcin will return in 2011 after breaking his fibula and dislocating his ankle before last season.