Arkansas Running Back Joe Himon Shines Amid Challenges

EVANSTON, Ill. — Joe Himon, a rising star in college football, has faced many challenges since joining Northwestern in January 2023 as a running back. Adjusting to a new coaching staff and level of competition were just the start. This spring, Himon quickly became a standout during practice, proving difficult to stop for the first-team defense.

“That dude was such a headache in spring ball with me as the defensive coordinator,” said David Braun, the head coach. Himon’s performance during practice helped elevate him to a crucial offensive role for the Wildcats during Braun’s inaugural season.

Himon, a native of Little Rock, Arkansas, has established himself as a versatile playmaker, contributing significantly in both rushing and receiving. He showcased his skills last fall, helping the team secure a Las Vegas Bowl ring. With 832 all-purpose yards last season, Himon has his sights set even higher.

“There’s always more work to be done,” Himon said. “We didn’t end on a note that we wanted to. It starts in the weight room, with nutrition and recovery. Once we got into camp, we were trying to figure out who we are and what our identity is.”

This season, Himon and redshirt sophomore running back partners have rejuvenated Northwestern’s rushing attack, amassing 728 yards in the first four conference games, a record for the program since 2012.

After a career-high 22 carries for 83 yards in a recent win over Purdue, Himon is motivated to maximize his impact each game. So far this season, he has recorded 362 rushing yards and 103 receiving yards.

“We prepare in a way that no matter who’s out there, we will all be ready,” he said. “We all play really well off each other.”

Juan Thompson, the running backs coach, first discovered Himon when he was at Cal, impressed by his explosive play. “Joe is a man with many skills; he has a diverse skill set on the field,” Thompson said.

Himon, regarded as a legendary figure in Arkansas high school football, won three state championships and was named the 2021 Gatorade State Player of the Year. His lasting influence has even led to comparisons with the state’s best football players.

<p"His name here in Arkansas is legendary," said Franklin Green, a longtime friend. "In this era, if you’re a running back, offensive player, you’re always going to be compared to Joe Himon."

Besides his sporting prowess, Himon is committed to giving back to his community through the Joseph R. Himon II Foundation, which funds scholarships and promotes mental health initiatives for student athletes.

As he continues to plan his goals and strive for excellence, Himon remains focused on his purpose both on and off the field. “Trials and tribulations have molded me in tremendous ways,” he said. “They have allowed me to grow on and off the field.”