Le’Veon Moss injury update: Mike Elko says Texas A&M football RB out vs South Carolina

When Texas A\&M head coach Mike Elko announced that starting running back Le’Veon Moss would miss the upcoming game against South Carolina—and indeed the rest of the 2024 season—it sent ripples through the college football world. Moss had emerged not only as the Aggies’ leading rusher but as a critical piece of their offensive identity. His injury marks a pivotal turning point in Texas A\&M’s season, with the team now forced to recalibrate their game plan heading into the final stretch.

As the Aggies remain in contention in the SEC West, Moss’s absence presents both a significant challenge and an opportunity for the rest of the roster to rise to the occasion.

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### **The Injury: What Happened and What We Know**

Moss sustained the injury during the second half of Texas A\&M’s 44–20 loss to South Carolina on November 2, 2024. After an awkward tackle near the sideline, he was helped off the field and did not return. Reports later confirmed it as a leg injury severe enough to rule him out for the remainder of the season.

During a media session on November 4, Elko confirmed the unfortunate news:

> “Le’Veon has been a warrior for us all year. He suffered a leg injury that will sideline him for the rest of the season. We’re heartbroken for him, but we’re confident in the guys we have in that room.”

The severity of the injury has not been publicly disclosed in full detail, but multiple sources have suggested it’s a lower leg fracture, which typically requires several months of recovery.

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### **Moss’s 2024 Season: A Dominant Campaign Cut Short**

Before his injury, Le’Veon Moss was on track to earn All-SEC honors. In just eight games, he had racked up 765 rushing yards on 121 carries, averaging an impressive 6.3 yards per attempt. He added 10 touchdowns and was one of the most consistent weapons in the Aggies’ offensive arsenal.

His running style—marked by quick cuts, power through contact, and breakaway speed—made him difficult to contain. Whether it was short-yardage conversions or explosive gains on early downs, Moss delivered.

Here’s a breakdown of some of his key performances in 2024:

* **vs. Arkansas**: 19 carries, 143 yards, 2 TDs
* **vs. Mississippi State**: 16 carries, 122 yards, 1 TD
* **vs. Alabama**: 21 carries, 98 yards, 1 TD (against one of the SEC’s top defenses)

His ability to take over games not only boosted the Aggies’ offense but helped balance the workload between the run and pass games—something that will be much more difficult to replicate without him.

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### **How the Aggies Plan to Replace Moss**

With Moss out, offensive coordinator Collin Klein faces the task of reshaping the backfield. Fortunately, Texas A\&M isn’t without options, but they now enter a phase of uncertainty and transition.

#### **Amari Daniels**

A junior with starting experience, Daniels is the most likely candidate to take over lead back duties. He has flashed ability in limited carries this season—posting 362 yards on 72 attempts with 4 touchdowns—and is considered more of a north-south runner.

Daniels may not possess Moss’s game-breaking speed, but he’s a reliable runner who can handle 15–20 carries per game. His experience in pass protection also makes him valuable in obvious passing situations.

#### **E.J. Smith**

The son of NFL Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith, E.J. transferred to A\&M looking for a larger role after a stint at Stanford. Now, with Moss down, Smith becomes a key rotational piece. Known for his receiving skills out of the backfield, Smith could bring a different dimension to the Aggies’ offense, especially on third downs.

#### **Freshman Terry Bussey**

While still developing, Bussey is one of the most electric young athletes on the roster. Originally recruited as a two-way player, Bussey has seen limited snaps on offense, but the coaching staff has hinted at expanding his role. His speed and agility make him a candidate for jet sweeps and screen passes.

#### **What About Rueben Owens?**

Owens, a former five-star recruit, was expected to be a major contributor in 2024 but has missed most of the season with a knee injury. There is no official timetable for his return, but if he’s cleared later in the season, he could be a surprise factor in the postseason push.

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### **Adjusting the Offensive Game Plan**

Without Moss, A\&M will need to rely more heavily on their passing game and diversified play-calling. Quarterback Conner Weigman, who returned from injury earlier this year, will shoulder a larger burden as the team tries to remain balanced.

Look for more:

* **RPO (Run-Pass Option)** plays with short slants and bubble screens
* **Two-back sets** with Daniels and Smith to create mismatches
* **Quick passes** to keep defenses honest and open up running lanes

Klein has shown flexibility as a play-caller, and with Elko’s emphasis on situational football, A\&M will look to maintain control of time of possession and field position through tactical play.

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### **SEC West Implications**

The loss to South Carolina dropped the Aggies to 6–3 overall and 4–2 in SEC play. While still technically in contention for the SEC West crown, A\&M needs to win out and receive help elsewhere. The path forward includes games against Ole Miss, LSU, and Missouri—none of which will be easy without Moss.

Even if A\&M falls short of reaching the SEC title game, they’re still in line for a high-profile bowl appearance. A 9-win season is still within reach, but much depends on how well the team adapts post-Moss.

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### **Locker Room Reaction and Support for Moss**

Moss’s teammates have rallied around him in the wake of the injury. During practice sessions, players have worn tape with “#8 Strong” in honor of his jersey number, and the coaching staff has spoken publicly about his leadership and character.

Senior linebacker Edgerrin Cooper said:

> “Le’Veon’s one of the toughest guys I know. He’s always grinding, always pushing us to be better. We’re gonna play hard for him the rest of the way.”

Elko also mentioned that Moss will remain active in team meetings and film sessions, serving as a mentor and emotional leader for the rest of the season.

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### **Long-Term Outlook and NFL Potential**

Despite the injury, Moss’s NFL potential remains bright. Scouts have noted his physical build (6’0″, 215 lbs), explosiveness, and vision as major assets. His 2024 game tape already speaks volumes about his ability to compete at the next level.

Depending on the severity of his injury and how the recovery process unfolds, Moss may still declare for the 2025 NFL Draft. Alternatively, he could choose to return for one more year and further solidify his draft stock.

If he returns to form, he’s likely a Day 2 selection (Rounds 2–3) with the upside of a long NFL career.

A Season-Defining Moment for Texas A\&M**

The injury to Le’Veon Moss is undeniably a major blow to Texas A\&M’s season. He was more than just a productive player—he was the heartbeat of the offense. However, how the Aggies respond to his absence could define their 2024 campaign.

In the world of college football, adversity is inevitable. It’s how teams respond that separates contenders from pretenders. With a deep running back room, a resilient coaching staff, and a locker room rallying behind their fallen star, Texas A\&M has the tools to weather the storm.

Moss may be sidelined physically, but his presence—both as a leader and as an inspiration—will continue to be felt as the Aggies push toward a strong finish.