Is Max Johnson out for the 2024 season? UNC QB gives insight into his future plans

The North Carolina Tar Heels suffered the loss of their starting quarterback Max Johnson in their season-opening 19-17 win against the Minnesota Golden Gophers. In the third quarter, after completing 71 passing yards and adding a rushing touchdown, Johnson was hit by a Minnesota player, buckling his right leg and breaking it in the process.

He was replaced by QB2 Conner Harrell who took over the reins of the starting QB. Johnson had surgery in Minneapolis after the game.

Johnson confirmed that he was out for the season but revealed that he would return to Chapel Hill for an extra year in 2025 to compensate for the lost time, per ESPN's Pete Thamel on X.

“I have a lot of football left in me, and know I will be back out there next year,” Max Johnson said. "I’ll be there every day supporting my teammates and helping out as much as I can. I appreciate all the love and support from the fans. These last eight days have been a serious grind and it has taken a lot to get to other side and start the recovery process. I want to thank Dr Templeman and his team, the nurses and support staff at Hennepin County Medical Center who took amazing care of me."

Max Johnson also thanked the coaching staff and revealed what his plans for the rest of the year were.

"Thank you to UNC Head Coach Mack Brown, the coaching staff, and trainers who have encouraged and supported me. Thank you to family and friends who have prayed and supported me during this time and ultimately my Lord and Savior that pulled me through. In the meantime, I’ll be there every day supporting my teammates and helping out as much as I can. I appreciate all the love and support from the fans – #GoHeels.”

Max Johnson replaced by Connor Harrell as UNC QB1

Max Johnson was a recent transfer from the Texas A&M Aggies but his North Carolina Tar Heels career did not start as planned after suffering a season-ending injury.

QB2 Connor Harrell was named as Johnson's replacement by UNC coach Mack Brown and he went 2-of-4 for 34 yards during his brief cameo in the game against Minnesota to safely lead his team to the narrow win.

Despite the huge injury setback, Max Johnson has already assured North Carolina fans that he will be back for an extra year in Chapel Hill while supporting Harrell as he attempts to guide the Tar Heels through the season.