Arkansas State Center Jacob Bayer Tears ACL In Spring Practice

Joe Londergan | Apr 3, 2024

Oct 7, 2021; Jonesboro, Arkansas, USA; Arkansas State Red Wolves Helmet at Centennial Bank Stadium. / Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports

Arkansas State football announced this week that starting center and First Team All-Sun Belt selection senior Jacob Bayer is recovering from a torn Anterior Cruciate Ligament. The injury occurred in spring practice this past weekend. Bayer had successful surgery to address the injury on Tuesday.

"It's going to be a long process for him," Arkansas State head coach Butch Jones told media on Tuesday. "We're here to support him. I know that he'll bounce back. He'll be better for it."

Jones went on to say that Bayer's absence creates a need for the other members of the offensive line to step up. It's unclear exactly how much time Bayer will miss, however, traditionally ACL tears take six-to-nine months to heal. Jones stated that it would be possible, however, for Bayer to return in early September.

Jones also noted that 2021 Freshman All-American wide receiver Corey Rucker will miss the rest of spring practice with a minor injury.

Bayer was PFF's highest-graded center in the Group of Five in 2023 and the second-highest-graded in FBS. The Redwolves finshed last season 6-7 and reached their first bowl game since 2019.

The Red Wolves' spring schedule will conclude on April 20 with the annual spring game at Centennial Bank Stadium in Jonesboro.

Published Apr 3, 2024

JOE LONDERGAN

Joe covers college sports from the Group of Five ranks and beyond. He has worked in the sports industry since 2008, earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Louisville, and a Master's degree from Seattle University.