The Oregon State football program was understandably excited when James Rodgers was granted a medical hardship waiver in early January, meaning the wide receiver/kick returner would be eligible for another season with the Beavers.
Unfortunately for OSU, the reason Rodgers received the waiver -- a significant knee injury that ended his 2010 season in early October -- could be the very same reason why he’s not able to take the field in 2011.
According to Paul Buker of The Oregonian, Rodgers underwent a second surgical procedure on his left knee ion the Bay area late last week. While the school has not commented on the latest development in his rehab, Rodgers’ mother told the paper that, as far as she knew, the procedure went well.
Because the school has yet to comment, it’s unclear whether this second surgery was expected or if it’s a setback in Rodgers’ rehab. But, based on the tone of Buker’s article, it appears very much up in the air whether or not Rodgers will be physically able to take advantage of the hardship waiver.
Rodgers suffered torn ligaments in his knee during the fifth game of the season, a win over Arizona. He underwent surgery nearly three weeks later to repair the damage.
Whether that will end up being his final game as a Beaver player remains to be seen.
