MINNEAPOLIS — Minnesota running back Shannon Brooks will redshirt the 2018 season with a lower-body injury that will require surgery.

Coach P.J. Fleck said Tuesday, as the Gophers began spring practice, that Brooks will return to action as a fifth-year senior in 2019. He missed six games last season due to injuries, rushing for 369 yards on 79 attempts. Brooks has 20 total touchdowns in 28 career games. His absence leaves Rodney Smith as the only experienced ball carrier.