Ohio State quarterback Braxton Miller isn't wasting any time getting his injured shoulder repaired, and he's putting the job in the hands of the surgeon of choice for athletes everywhere. The Columbus Dispatch reported Miller will undergo shoulder surgery to repair a partially torn labrum on Tuesday, with the procedure to be performed by Dr. James Andrews.
Ohio State coach Urban Meyer has said he understands the injury will put Miller out of action for 9-12 months. As such, in a worst-case scenario, Miller's recovery would keep him off the field for much of Ohio State's preseason camp next year, as well. In the nine-month scenario, he would at least be unavailable for spring practice next year, but back in time for the start of camp. Miller has said he will return to OSU as a fifth-year senior next year rather than entering the 2015 NFL Draft. Though he is one of the most effective quarterbacks in college football, Miller is not considered an elite NFL prospect as a passer and might ultimately consider a position switch in pro football.
NFL Media senior analyst Gil Brandt reported earlier this week that Miller would miss the 2014 season after he re-injured his right (throwing) shoulder in practice. The injury occurred while Miller was making a short throw and there was no contact on the play, according to a release by the school.
Miller initially injured the same shoulder in January during the Orange Bowl against Clemson, and had arthroscopic surgery in February that kept him out of spring drills. A legitimate Heisman Trophy candidate entering his senior year, Miller's injury dealt a significant blow to the Buckeyes' hopes of reaching college football's inaugural four-team playoff.
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