Ole Miss Center Undergoes Shoulder Surgery

Brycen Sanders expects to return as starting quarterback in 2026 season.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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Ole Miss center Brycen Sanders underwent surgery in the offseason to repair a torn rotator cuff and labrum injury he suffered during the 2025 season. Sanders is expected to make a full recovery and return as the starting quarterback for the Rebels in the 2026 season.

Why it matters

Injuries to key players can significantly impact a college football team's performance, so Sanders' recovery will be crucial for Ole Miss as they look to build on their success from the previous season.

The details

Sanders, a redshirt junior, suffered the shoulder injuries during Week 4 of the 2025 season. He played through the pain for the remainder of the year, but the injuries required offseason surgery to repair. Sanders is expected to make a full recovery and reclaim his starting role under center for the Rebels in 2026.

  • Sanders suffered the shoulder injuries during Week 4 of the 2025 season.
  • Sanders underwent surgery in the offseason following the 2025 season.
  • Sanders is expected to return as the starting quarterback for Ole Miss in the 2026 season.

The players

Brycen Sanders

A redshirt junior center for the Ole Miss Rebels football team.

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What they’re saying

“Brycen is a tough kid and we're confident he'll make a full recovery. We're looking forward to having him back leading our offense in 2026.”

— Lane Kiffin, Head Coach, Ole Miss Rebels (on3.com)

What’s next

Sanders is expected to participate in spring practice and be fully cleared for the start of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Injuries are always a concern for college football programs, but the Rebels appear optimistic that Sanders will make a successful return and reclaim his starting role under center in 2026.