Oregon RB Thomas Tyner will miss season after shoulder surgery

The father of Thomas Tyner confirmed Sunday to CSNNW.com’s Aaron Fentress that his son underwent successful shoulder surgery this past Friday.

With Tyner now down for the season, more pressure is placed on Royce Freeman to repeat his freshman numbers (1,365 yards, 18 touchdowns).

Unfortunately for both the running back and the team, Tyner will miss the entire 2015 season as he rehabs from the surgery. According to his father, Tyner injured his shoulder returning a kickoff against Washington and “lingering pain and discomfort led to Tyner undergoing shoulder surgery”.

The shifty runner had established himself as a reliable complementary piece of the rushing attack, as his 573 yards and five touchdowns last season in a backup role proved.

“Tyner, who started the national title game, was expected to compete for the starting job this season” wrote Fentress.

If there is one thing Oregon Ducks has been able to do over the years, it is adapt to the personnel on the roster. His absence may force Oregon to move Byron Marshall back to running back. Tyner is eligible for a redshirt season, which would give the running back two more seasons at Oregon. Brooks-James was a heralded recruit out of Florida and has recovered from a foot injury that limited his efforts in 2014.

Oregon opens fall camp Monday.