Rutgers University’s football team has suffered a significant setback as linebacker Mohamed Toure is set to miss the entire upcoming season due to a torn ACL. The injury was confirmed by head coach Greg Schiano on Tuesday. Toure, who was poised to be a starting linebacker and a key component of the Scarlet Knights’ defense in 2024, had high expectations riding on his performance this season.
Toure’s absence is particularly painful for Rutgers, as he has been a consistent performer since joining the team in 2019. Over the course of 37 games, Toure had established himself as a reliable playmaker, recording 4.5 sacks in each of his past three seasons (2020, 2021, 2023). His 2022 season was already lost to a previous ACL tear, making this latest injury even more disheartening for the player and the team.
Last year, Toure was recognized as a semifinalist for the College Sports Communicators’ Comeback Player of the Year award, a testament to his resilience and determination. He finished the 2023 season with 93 tackles, including 9.5 for loss, 4.5 sacks, and an interception. His efforts also earned him a spot on the 2024 Butkus Award watch list, which honors the best linebackers in college football. Losing a player of his caliber leaves a significant void in Rutgers’ defensive lineup.
Rutgers, which was ranked ninth out of 18 teams in the Big Ten preseason media poll, will now have to adjust their defensive strategy heading into the season. The Scarlet Knights are set to open their campaign on August 29 at home against Howard, an FCS opponent. The team will need to rally and find ways to fill the gap left by Toure’s absence as they navigate a challenging Big Ten schedule.
