Syracuse, N.Y. -- One awkward tackle during preseason camp last fall changed the shape of Josh Black's 2017 season and, ultimately, his Syracuse football career.
Then a sophomore defensive end, Black suffered a nagging knee injury as the cartilage from his femur broke off and wedged itself underneath his kneecap. He battled through it for about a month, but when he was unable to push off on his first snap against LSU on Sept. 23, it became clear Black could no longer play.
He underwent surgery the following Tuesday.
"I would be running and my knee would just lock up on me," Black said Thursday.