Indiana QB Kurtis Rourke Played with Torn ACL, Set for Surgery

Kurtis Rourke’s remarkable performance for Indiana this season is even more astounding with the revelation that he played the entire year with a torn ACL. The fifth-year quarterback, who led the Hoosiers to their first-ever College Football Playoff appearance, is scheduled to undergo surgery next week to repair the injury, according to his agent, Casey Muir.

Rourke is believed to have sustained the injury during preseason in August but chose to play through it, helping Indiana achieve an 11-1 regular-season record and the best season in program history. The Hoosiers’ historic run ended with a loss to Notre Dame in the playoff semifinals on Dec. 21.

A Heisman-Caliber Season
Despite the torn ACL, Rourke’s statistics underscored his importance to the team. He completed 222 of 320 passes for 3,042 yards and 29 touchdowns against just five interceptions over 12 games, finishing ninth in the Heisman Trophy voting. However, his performances in losses highlighted his physical challenges. Against Ohio State on Nov. 23, Rourke went 8-of-18 for 68 yards in the Hoosiers’ lone regular-season defeat. In the playoff loss to Notre Dame, he threw for 215 yards and two touchdowns but also had an interception.

Rourke missed Indiana’s game against Washington earlier in the season after losing the nail on his throwing thumb during a win over Nebraska.

A Career Marked by Perseverance
This isn’t the first time Rourke has battled adversity. He previously tore the ACL in his right knee during the 2022 season while playing for Ohio, where he was named MAC MVP after throwing for 3,257 yards and 25 touchdowns in 11 games. Rourke returned to Ohio for the 2023 season before transferring to Indiana for the 2024 campaign under new head coach Curt Cignetti.

Legacy Cemented
Rourke’s decision to play through the injury speaks to his resilience and leadership. “Kurtis is the heart and soul of this team,” head coach Cignetti said. “What he accomplished this season, under these circumstances, is a reflection of his toughness and commitment.”

As Rourke prepares for surgery and recovery, NFL scouts are likely to take note of his strong work ethic, leadership, and ability to perform under extreme circumstances. The Hoosiers, meanwhile, will look to build on their landmark season as they navigate life without their star quarterback.