College Football Fans Saddened as Star Quarterback Announces Medical Retirement
Some upsetting news struck the college football world on Wednesday, as it was revealed that just a week after former Florida State star quarterback Jordan Travis announced his medical retirement, another standout has also been forced to call it a career due to persistent injuries.
Utah Utes star quarterback Cameron Rising, who had a highly successful run with the program and likely cemented himself as one of the greatest players in its history, announced his medical retirement from football after battling multiple season-ending injuries throughout his collegiate career.
"Due to a hand injury I suffered during the Baylor game, I've been advised by two orthopedic physicians that I will never be able to return to playing football," Rising posted on social media. "I'II be obtaining a 3rd medical opinion and will undergo the recommended surgery. I will continue to rehab and do all I can to get healthy. In the meantime, I will unfortunately be forced to medically retire from the game I love."
Rising continued, "My why has always been my family. I have always thought of my teammates as my brothers and always will. Thank you guys for always pushing me to improve and just making this game enjoyable. Thank you to the coaches for guiding me in the right direction to become a better man and football player. Coach Ludwig, thank you for turning me into a football nerd and showing me the correct way to respect the game. Lastly, thank you to all the fans and everyone that supported me throughout my career. You all made the moments special."
Fans reacted Rising's post:
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"My favorite QB who has ever put on a University of Utah uniform… Nothing will beat the 2 PAC12 Championship seasons. Appreciate everything you've done for Utah football! You'll always have a fan in me," a fan said.
"What a legend. You gave us the best memories and are a true Utah Man. I hope to see you part of the program for a long time. Much respect," another fan posted.
"Sad. But once a ute always a ute!" someone else added.
One more fan commented, "Bad Moon forever! Thank you."
Utah Utes quarterback Cameron Rising (7)© Christopher Creveling-Imagn Images
Rising is stepping away from the game at the age of 25—one of the older quarterbacks at the collegiate level—largely due to extended eligibility granted from injuries and the COVID-19 waiver.
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A two-time Pac-12 champion, Rising's decision to retire was influenced by a hand injury he suffered early in the 2024 season against Baylor, which caused him to miss nine games that year.
Despite the setbacks, his career was marked by impressive production. Over 30 games, he threw for 6,127 yards, 53 touchdowns, and just 17 interceptions, while also adding 986 rushing yards and 12 rushing scores.
Rising appeared in every game during both the 2021 and 2022 seasons, but only played in one game in 2020 and missed the entirety of the 2023 season due to injury. Now, he steps away from a game in which he found immense success and left a lasting legacy at Utah.
Related: Major College Football Program Ruled Ineligible for Bowl Games After Academic Collapse
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