Rutgers University football head coach Greg Schiano confirmed on Tuesday that freshman wide receiver KJ Duff will be sidelined for the remainder of the 2024 season.
The announcement comes following the news that the player recently “undergoes season ending high-ankle surgery” to address a significant injury sustained during his debut campaign.
Duff, a three-star recruit out of St. Anthony’s High School in New York, arrived in Piscataway with high expectations after a standout prep career.
The coaching staff had been integrating him into the offensive rotation throughout the early portion of the schedule, hoping his physical stature would provide a reliable target for the passing game.
However, the injury occurred at a critical juncture, forcing the team to adjust its roster depth as they prepare for the upcoming slate of Big Ten conference matchups.
Schiano noted that the procedure was deemed necessary to ensure a full recovery and long-term health for the young athlete.
While the loss of a promising freshman is a setback for the Scarlet Knights, the program remains focused on its immediate objectives for the year.
The team is currently navigating a competitive conference schedule and must look toward other veteran receivers to fill the void left by Duff’s absence on the field.
Medical staff will oversee his rehabilitation process, with expectations that he will be fully cleared to return to team activities during the off-season program.
The Scarlet Knights continue to prepare for their next opponent, emphasizing the importance of depth and resilience in the face of personnel changes.
Fans and teammates have expressed support for Duff as he begins his recovery journey, with the coaching staff highlighting the importance of his mental and physical well-being throughout this difficult period.
Rutgers will aim to maintain its momentum on the field without the services of the talented newcomer for the duration of the current campaign.