Thomas Sirk Injury: Updates on Duke QB's Achilles and Recovery

Duke quarterback Thomas Sirk is going to miss the entire 2016 season after suffering a tear of his left Achilles tendon. 

Continue for updates.

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Duke Starter Uncertain After Sirk's Injury

Saturday, Aug. 27

Bleacher Report's Barrett Sallee noted Saturday the Blue Devils confirmed the injury setback will cost Sirk his senior campaign.

Joedy McCreary of the Associated Press reported it's the third Achilles injury since 2013 for the team's expected starter under center. Sirk previously tore his left Achilles back in February but attempted to complete the rehab before the start of the new season.

It's a major loss for the Blue Devils offense. Sirk accounted for more than 3,400 yards of total offense and 24 touchdowns last season. That includes a three-TD performance in the 2015 Pinstripe Bowl, which earned him co-MVP honors with Duke running back Shaun Wilson.

Head coach David Cutcliffe will now have to choose between junior Parker Boehme and redshirt freshman Daniel Jones to fill the void.

Boehme received limited playing time last season. He completed 55.1 percent of his 78 attempts with just two touchdowns and one interception. He did rush for five TDs, though.

Jones hasn't taken any snaps at the collegiate level but could provide more upside based on his progress during camp. Chip Alexander of the News & Observer passed along comments from the dual-threat signal-caller about what he brings to the table.

"I feel like as a player, both being able to run and pass is a strength of mine," Jones said. "Obviously as a quarterback you want to be able to throw the ball first, and I feel like that’s a strength of mine. But being able to do both, I think, is a strength of my game."

Ultimately, it wouldn't be a surprise to see Boehme get the starting nod at the outset because of his previous experience. He'd need to play well throughout the season in order to hold off Jones, who has made a strong case to move up the depth chart.

Cutcliffe doesn't have much time to make the decision. The Blue Devils are scheduled to open the campaign next Saturday, Sept. 3, against North Carolina Central.