Chip Trayanum injury update: What happened to Kentucky’s running back?

Running back Chip Trayanum was projected to be a star for the Kentucky Wildcats this season after transferring from the Ohio State Buckeyes. But he is now expected to miss the first few games of the 2024 college football season.

Ky Sports Radio host Matt Jones is reporting that Trayanum suffered a broken hand and is expected to miss a month of action, which would likely include one or two games.

That means this would probably force him to miss the opening game of the season, at home, against Southern Miss on August 31. He could also potentially miss the September 7 game against South Carolina.

Chip Trayanum had a strong campaign in limited action for the Ohio State Buckeyes last season before transferring to the Kentucky Wildcats. He finished the 2023 season with 85 rushing attempts for 373 yards (4.4 yards per carry) with three rushing touchdowns and nine receptions for 53 yards (5.9 yards per catch).

Trayanum was expected to be the team's starting running back. It will now be interesting to see who among Demie Sumo-Karngbaye, Jamarion Wilcox, Jason Patterson or Tovani Mizell steps up in his absence.

What does losing Chip Trayanum do to the Kentucky Wildcats offense?

Losing Chip Trayanum is going to be a tough blow to a Kentucky Wildcats program that is going to need some reps to get on the same page. The offense should be able to win the two non-conference games, whether he is able to return to the field for the first two games or not.

Coach Mark Stoops was able to do well last year offensively and this puts a little bit more pressure on transfer quarterback Brock Vandagriff. The latter has sat behind Carson Beck for the last few seasons with the Georgia Bulldogs.

In the grand scheme of things, this should help Trayanum stay healthier during the season. As long as there are no setbacks, he should be available for the more important games on the schedule and the Wildcats can get some more cohesion in playing together.

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