Virginia’s Perris Jones Undergoes Spine Surgery After Scary Hit at Louisville

Virginia announced running back Perris Jones underwent successful spinal surgery after leaving Thursday night’s game at Louisville on a stretcher. The Cavaliers say Jones walked briefly Friday but will remain in Louisville for observation.

Jones suffered the injury in a collision with Louisville defensive back Cam’Ron Kelly in the third quarter Thursday, and he subsequently laid motionless near the Louisville sideline. Trainers from both teams rushed to his aid, and Jones was stretchered off the field to University Hospital in Louisville.

Virginia running back Perris Jones underwent successful spinal surgery following a scary hit Thursday night in Louisville.

Amber Searls/USA Today network

Virginia said Friday that Jones had regained feeling and movement in his extremities after an overnight stay in the hospital. Jones is in his sixth year with the team and leads the Cavaliers with 393 rushing yards on 76 carries. He has 770 rushing yards in his career, with most of his production coming over the past two seasons.

Virginia (2-8) plays host to Duke (6-3) on Nov. 18.