Hardy was a finalist for the Doak Walker Award last season, which honors the nation’s top running back.
Missouri junior running back Ahmad Hardy sustained a gunshot wound at a concert in Laurel, Mississippi, early Sunday morning. After undergoing surgery, he is in stable condition, according to a statement from Missouri football.
Sources close to Hardy’s condition confirmed he was shot in the leg. His return to the field timeline remains uncertain. Missouri noted it will release further details on his status “when it becomes available.” Local authorities are investigating the incident.
“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 in its statement.
Hardy, a native of Oma, Mississippi, began his college career at Louisiana Monroe before transferring to Missouri. In 2025, he rushed for 1,649 yards and 16 touchdowns, finishing second nationally in rushing yards and first among power conference running backs.
The running back earned first-team All-SEC honors and was a finalist for the Doak Walker Award. After the season, he chose to remain at Missouri instead of entering the NFL Draft, despite interest from other programs seeking a second transfer.
