Southern Miss football fans received unexpected and concerning news just days before the highly anticipated spring game—multiple key players are dealing with injuries and could be sidelined for the showcase event. Sources within the program indicate that at least three projected starters have suffered injuries during spring practices, raising questions about the team’s depth heading into the 2025 season.
One of the biggest concerns is surrounding star quarterback Billy Wiles, who reportedly sustained a lower-body injury earlier this week. While team officials have not disclosed the severity, there is growing speculation that he may be held out of the spring game as a precautionary measure. Losing their QB1, even temporarily, could disrupt offensive progress under head coach Will Hall’s system.
Adding to the uncertainty, standout wide receiver Jakarius Caston and starting linebacker Swayze Bozeman are also dealing with nagging injuries that may keep them off the field. Caston, a key playmaker in the Golden Eagles’ passing attack, has been limited in practice with what appears to be a hamstring issue, while Bozeman, a defensive leader, has been nursing a shoulder injury.
“We’re monitoring a few guys closely,” said Coach Hall in a brief statement. “We want to make sure we’re smart with their recovery and not push them too hard before the fall.”
The potential absences of these impact players could shift the focus of the spring game from showcasing the team’s offensive and defensive strengths to evaluating depth at multiple positions. Fans hoping to get a preview of Southern Miss’ top talent may instead see younger players and backups take center stage.
Despite the injuries, the coaching staff remains optimistic about the team’s progress. Offensive coordinator Sam Gregg emphasized that this could be a valuable opportunity for the team’s underclassmen to step up. “Spring ball is about development. We’d love to have everyone healthy, but this gives some guys a chance to prove themselves,” he noted.
Southern Miss fans were already eager to see how the team would respond after last season’s struggles, and now the spring game takes on even greater significance. With uncertainty surrounding several key positions, Saturday’s event could provide a glimpse into the team’s resilience and readiness for the upcoming season.
As the Golden Eagles prepare to take the field, all eyes will be on who steps up in the absence of the injured stars—and whether Southern Miss can weather this unexpected setback as they build toward a crucial 2025 campaign.