Charles Pierre Jr. back healthy for spring football, eager to lead USD's ground attack in 2026

— Seven months removed from a season-ending ACL injury that halted what many believed would be a breakout season in 2025, Charles Pierre Jr. is back where he feels most like himself: on the field, in pads, and fully engaged in football. For the University of South Dakota senior running back, the road back hasn't been simple.

But as spring practice rolls on in Vermillion, Pierre is no longer defined by rehab timelines or medical updates. "Mentally, I am in a way better space, you know, physically as well," Pierre said. "I am able to practice with the team as a full participant and I got cleared a couple of weeks ago.

Honestly, I am in a really good space and feeling better than ever. " That declaration is significant considering where Pierre was in early September. In Week 2 of the 2025 season, during a non-conference matchup against Lamar University, Pierre's season came to an abrupt end late in the first half when he suffered a torn ACL.

At the time, he was USD's unquestioned starter, coming off a sophomore season that placed him among the most productive backs in the FCS. Instead of building on that momentum, Pierre was forced into the most grueling stretch of his football career, which include months of rehab, and the mental strain that accompanies a significant knee injury. "It has been mentally draining, but it's also been a blessing to be able to do it as fast as I did," Pierre said.