Why This Star College Quarterback Is Calling It Quits at Just 25—And What It Means for His Future

When you think about the roar of the crowd and the thunderous energy in college football’s most intimidating stadiums, it’s hard not to wonder: what does it feel like to suddenly hang up the cleats before your prime? Just as fans are mentally gearing up for another season of heart-stopping plays and stadium wars, two respected athletes have stepped away from the game—not by choice, but by the cruel hand of medical fate. Bru McCoy and Cameron Rising, both shining stars with promising careers ahead, have made the painful decision to retire early. Rising’s announcement, especially, cuts deep given his remarkable legacy with the Utah Utes, where he threw for over 6,000 yards and helped clinch back-to-back Pac-12 titles. It’s a stark reminder that behind every epic stadium showdown lies a fragile human story. So, what happens when your dreams collide with reality? And how do you say goodbye to the game you love while knowing your ‘why’ runs deeper than just touchdowns and cheers? Hang on, this one’s a real gut-punch. LEARN MORE.

For the second time in the past 24 hours, a well-respected athlete has retired from playing football for medical reasons. 

On Tuesday night, former Tennessee wide receiver Bru McCoy announced his retirement with a heartfelt statement on social media. His decision wasn’t a secret leading up to the NFL Draft, according to a report from Jordan Schultz. 

Fast forward to this Wednesday afternoon, and Cameron Rising has announced his retirement at the age of 25. 

Rising wasn’t listed on Utah’s roster earlier this year, an indication that his future was up in the air. What fans didn’t realize was that he was receiving medical opinions on his injured throwing hand.   

“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 said. “I’ll 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.

“My why has always been my family. I 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.”

Utah fans are understandably devastated by Rising’s announcement this Wednesday. 

Rising finished his career at Utah with 6,127 passing yards and 53 touchdowns. While his production was worthy of an applause, the highlight of his time with the Utes was winning Pac-12 championships in 2021 and 2022. 

We wish Rising all the best as he enters the next chapter of his career.

Related: Football Fans Saddened By Bru McCoy’s Sudden Retirement At 24