College Football Player Injured in Serious Fourth of July Weekend Accident

Every year, college football programs have to hold their breath when their players go home for the summer, hoping that they don't find themselves making negative headlines in a number of ways.

This Fourth of July weekend, Notre Dame offensive lineman Charles Jagusah finds his name in the news for an unfortunate reason. According to reports, the 6-foot-7, 333-pound sophomore suffered an arm injury in a utility-terrain vehicle (UTV) accident on Saturday. 

Details are minimal at this point, but the Notre Dame football sports information X/Twitter account confirmed the news in a statement Sunday morning.

“Sophomore OL Charles Jagusah was injured in a UTV accident in Wyoming on July 5,” Notre Dame said. “He has undergone surgery to repair a fracture of his left humerus. The initial prognosis is favorable, and he will return to campus early this week for further evaluation and continued care.”

This blow is the latest injury setback for Jagusah, who was slated to be Notre Dame's starting left tackle in 2024 before suffering a torn right pectoral muscle on Aug. 6. He missed the entire regular season, returning in the College Football Playoff against Georgia and appearing in a reserve role against the Bulldogs and Penn State before starting against Ohio State in the national championship game.

The Rock Island, Illinois native, who made two appearances, including his first career start, in 2023, was expected to open this season as the starting right guard for the Fighting Irish.

With this new arm injury, that won't be happening. Now, we'll have to see if Jagusah can contribute in any capacity this fall.

For many, the Fourth of July is a time for fun with family and friends, but there are plenty of hidden dangers that go along with the holiday. Please be safe out there.