Ahmad Hardy was one of three finalists last season for the Doak Walker Award, given to the nation’s top running back. Jeff Le / Getty Images
May 11, 2026Updated 12:58 pm EDT
Missouri junior running back Ahmad Hardy suffered a gunshot wound at a concert in Mississippi early Sunday morning and is in stable condition after undergoing surgery, Missouri football said in a statement.
Hardy was shot in the leg, sources briefed on his condition said. His timeline for a return to the field is currently unknown. Missouri said it would share more information on his status “when it becomes available.”
“Ahmad is deeply loved by his teammates, coaches, friends, family and fans. We will continue to stand by him and his family through this difficult time, offering our love, prayers, strength and support,” the program said.
Hardy, a native of Oma, Miss., began his career at Louisiana Monroe before transferring to Missouri. He finished 2025 with 1,649 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns, second-most nationally and most among power conference running backs.
Hardy was named first-team All-SEC and a finalist for the Doak Walker Award, given to the nation’s top running back.
After the season, he elected to return to Missouri rather than enter the NFL Draft. He was also pursued by other programs for a second transfer and declined to leave Missouri.
— Bruce Feldman contributed to this report.
May 11, 2026
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