Texas Tech Quarterback Behren Morton’s Road to Recovery

Introduction to the Offseason

FRISCO — It’s been a busy offseason for Texas Tech quarterback Behren Morton. Before he spent time at the Manning Passing Academy in Louisiana, Morton underwent shoulder surgery in December. Morton told reporters at Big 12 Media Days that he’s looking forward to a clean bill of health ahead of the 2025 season.

“I went out to California, Dr. [Neal] ElAttrache, the guy that did Aaron Rodgers’ Achilles surgery, I met with him. He got me fixed and it’s the best I’ve felt in a long time,” Morton said.

The Injury and Initial Treatment

Morton initially sustained a Grade 5 AC joint sprain during the 2023 season. He opted to avoid surgery at that point and managed to play through it for most of 2024. Morton said he would get shots in his shoulder before games to manage the injury.

This experience was not easy for Morton, but he persevered and continued to play, albeit with some difficulty due to the injury. His decision to avoid surgery initially and instead manage the pain with shots before games shows his dedication to the sport and his team.

Rehabilitation and Medical Support

Tech coach Joey McGuire credited his program’s medical staff for its work at rehabbing Morton’s injury. After Morton underwent surgery, McGuire said the quarterback met with a top physical therapist in Jacksonville, Florida.

McGuire added that his staff recently had its quarterbacks tested through a system that maps out each player’s body as they go through a throwing session. The system then shows players what they can do to take pressure off their arms.

McGuire said Tech is one of two college football teams to use the system. This innovative approach to player health and performance is a testament to the program’s commitment to its athletes’ well-being and success.

Mental and Physical Impact

“I think more than anything, this is great mentally for Behren,” McGuire said. “His last game against West Virginia, he performed at a really high level but I do think that shoulder was always in the back of his mind.

“He felt like, without a doubt, he had more in him.”

The mental aspect of recovering from an injury should not be underestimated. For athletes like Morton, knowing they can perform at their best without the hindrance of pain or the fear of further injury is crucial for their confidence and overall performance.

Looking Ahead to the 2025 Season

Morton will be a key starter for the Red Raiders in 2025. The quarterback finished the 2024 season with 3,335 passing yards, 27 touchdowns through the air and eight interceptions.

These statistics demonstrate Morton’s capability and potential as a leading player in the team. With his injury behind him and a clean bill of health, expectations are high for his performance in the upcoming season.

Conclusion

Behren Morton’s journey to recovery is a story of resilience and dedication. From undergoing shoulder surgery to rehabilitation and preparation for the 2025 season, Morton has shown that with the right mindset and support, athletes can overcome significant challenges and come back stronger.

The integration of advanced medical techniques and technologies, such as the system used by Tech to analyze and improve quarterback performance, highlights the evolving nature of sports medicine and player care. As Morton and the Red Raiders look to the future, their commitment to health, performance, and teamwork will be key factors in their success.

FAQs

Q: What injury did Behren Morton sustain during the 2023 season?

A: Morton sustained a Grade 5 AC joint sprain during the 2023 season.

Q: How did Morton manage his injury during the 2024 season?

A: Morton managed his injury by getting shots in his shoulder before games.

Q: Who performed Morton’s shoulder surgery?

A: Dr. Neal ElAttrache, known for performing Aaron Rodgers’ Achilles surgery, performed Morton’s shoulder surgery.

Q: What innovative system does Texas Tech use for its quarterbacks?

A: Texas Tech uses a system that maps out each player’s body as they go through a throwing session to show players how to take pressure off their arms.

Q: What are the expectations for Behren Morton in the 2025 season?

A: With his injury behind him, expectations are high for Morton’s performance in the 2025 season, given his past statistics and the team’s reliance on him as a key starter.