Pitt Panthers running back Rachid Ibrahim will be lost of the season to an Achilles tendon injury, according to head coach Pat Narduzzi.
The junior running back played in all 13 games in 2014 as a backup to James Connor, gaining 263 yards on 33 carries, for a stellar 8.0 yards per carry average. He also added 11 catches for 73 yards.
Ibrahim was expected to split time behind Connor with sophomore Chris James in the Panthers backfield. His role will likely be assumed by true freshman Darrin Hall (Youngstown, Ohio).
Ibrahim was injured during a non-contract drill earlier in training camp according to Narduzzi, and the team waited until he underwent further testing before making the announcement that his season is likely over.
He will be eligible to take a redshirt season in 2015 and return in 2016 with two seasons of eligibility.
Ibrahim seemed to be taking the news well, and he took to Twitter to announce his intentions to return next season.
God has a plan for everyone.Gunna be tough not being out there with my brothers this year, but you best believe imma come back stronger #H2P
— Rachid Ibrahim (@YaBoiSheed) August 26, 2015
Pitt opens their season at 1:00 p.m. on September 5 against Youngstown State at Heinz Field.
Photo credit: USA Today
