Missouri running back Ahmad Hardy will make his season debut Saturday against Arkansas, according to sources who spoke with CBS Sports' Matt Zenitz.
Hardy suffered a gunshot wound in May while attending a concert in Mississippi. He missed Missouri's first seven games while recovering. CBS Sports reports he has been cleared to play this weekend.
Coach Eli Drinkwitz announced on social media earlier this week that Hardy had returned to practice but did not commit to his game status. Hardy was not listed on Missouri's SEC availability report Wednesday night, which CBS Sports describes as an indication he would be available against Arkansas.
In 2025, Hardy ranked second nationally and first among Power Four running backs with 1,649 rushing yards and 16 rushing touchdowns, according to the report.
Jamal Roberts has been Missouri's top running back during Hardy's absence. He ranks eighth nationally with 867 rushing yards and is tied for 11th with eight rushing touchdowns, the report says.