A fourteen-year-old boy based in Missouri has been left paralyzed after a horrific spinal football injury. So, when and how did this happen, and is there a chance he will be okay in the long run? Keep reading for more details on this tragic situation.
Missouri 14-Year-Old Left Paralyzed
Sports can be hit or miss, and they come with their own struggles. One never knows what will happen, especially when playing football. It could lead to brain injuries, including CTE, something Kim Zolciak believes her ex, Kroy Biermann, has after his pro career. Unfortunately, bodily injuries are much more common, and such was the case with a Missouri football player, 14. Ju’Lius Byers was playing his first game of the season when he suffered a spinal cord injury. This all went down at the beginning of September 2025, and to add to this, it was Ju’Lius’ first high school game.
He detailed what happened, and it seems that he blacked out when he was hit and then became partially paralyzed. Ju’Lius recalls waking up after the injury that occurred in the second quarter of the game:
“I remember getting off the block, I get hit, and then I kind of blacked out a little bit, and then I woke up.”
His father stated that they were so proud of the high school freshman and the plays he was making until things took a turn. He has since undergone two emergency surgeries, plus a GoFundMe has been set up to help his family. This is extremely pricey, so they are hoping to raise $35K. As of now, they are almost at $30K, which is incredible.
This has been scary for all who know and love the Missouri teen. It is a struggle because he just started high school and should be enjoying every day. Unfortunately, the accident on the field has changed all of that, and may have ended his dreams of playing college football. On the bright side, he is walking and is expected to begin rehab.
A Sad Turn
Followers of this story were devastated to hear about what happened to Ju’Lius Byers. They sent love and prayers to him and his family for a speedy recovery. Again, he is expected to be released from the hospital and enter rehab, which will further assist him. However, it is unclear if he will be able to play football again this season. The love and support likely mean a lot to his family, who have been through so much:
- Sending my prayers to him and his family
- This is real sad but also scary. Prays to this young man.
- Prayers for him and his family. Seems like such a sweet young man. Please God, heal and restore his body and strengthen him.
One noted that they were at the game, and it was awful what happened. Had you heard about this story or is this the first time? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Amanda has been a professional freelance writer for over a decade, holding both a BA and an MA. Her passions include animals, iced coffee, gnomes, summer, music, and ‘Vanderpump Rules’.
