Utah quarterback Cam Rising is hanging up his cleats, but he won’t be leaving the game of football entirely behind. 

Rising, who is 25 years old, took to social media on Wednesday to announce his retirement from football due to medical reasons. The decision came after sustaining a hand injury during a game against Baylor in September.

He mentioned, “As a result of the hand injury I sustained during the Baylor game, two orthopedic physicians have advised me that I will not be able to return to playing football. I will seek a third medical opinion and proceed with the recommended surgery. While working on my rehabilitation and striving to regain my health, I sadly have to medically retire from the sport that I am passionate about.”

Rising expressed his gratitude towards his family, considering them as his primary motivation. He also referred to his teammates as brothers and thanked them for their constant support and encouragement. The football player acknowledged the coaches for their guidance in shaping him into a better individual and athlete. He specifically appreciated Coach Ludwig for instilling in him a deep respect for the game and helping him grow as a player. Lastly, Rising extended his thanks to all the fans and supporters who stood by him throughout his career, emphasizing that their backing made his football journey truly special.

While Rising won’t be on the field for Utah anymore, he will be on the sidelines for his high school alma mater, Newbury Park, as its offensive coordinator, ESPN reported. 

Rising was a three-year starter at the California high school from 2015-17 before spending his first college season at the University of Texas. 

The 25-year-old played 30 total games during his time with Utah and led the program to Pac-12 championships in 2021 and 2022. 

But injuries hindered his time on the field, and this past season, he played in just three games.