Cam Rising, one of the most influential quarterbacks in Utah football history, officially announced his medical retirement from football on Wednesday, bringing a memorable and resilient college career to an emotional close.
Utah’s Cam Rising Announces Medical Retirement After Memorable College Career
Rising’s announcement comes after he suffered a serious hand injury during Utah’s Week 2 matchup against Baylor in the 2024 season. Though he initially hoped to return to the field, medical advice from two orthopedic specialists has forced him to step away from the game.
Bad Moon Out. pic.twitter.com/hfn5n5WtKB
— Cameron Rising (@crising7) May 7, 2025
“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 in his statement. “I’ll be obtaining a third 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’s college football journey was defined as much by perseverance as it was by performance. After redshirting at Texas in 2018, he transferred to Utah and redshirted again in 2019. His 2020 campaign ended abruptly after a shoulder injury against USC in the season opener. But in 2021, Rising emerged as the Utes’ starting quarterback in Week 3 and quickly became a program icon.
That season, he threw for 20 touchdowns with just five interceptions and led Utah to its first-ever Pac-12 Championship. In 2022, he followed it up with another stellar campaign, passing for over 3,000 yards and 26 touchdowns. However, his season and momentum, was cut short by a devastating knee injury during the Rose Bowl against Penn State.
Despite battling through grueling rehab in hopes of returning for the 2023 season, Rising faced setback after setback. A lower-leg injury in his comeback attempt against Arizona State, coupled with lingering issues from the hand injury suffered earlier in the year, proved too much to overcome.
While injuries marred the latter half of his career, Rising’s impact on Utah football goes far beyond statistics. His leadership, confidence, and fierce competitive spirit reshaped the culture of the program. When Rising took over in 2021, Utah found its swagger, his presence at quarterback elevated the Utes from good to great.
Even during challenging times, Rising was known for his poise and positivity. Utah was never out of a game with him under center, a mentality that inspired his teammates and fans alike.
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Though it’s a heartbreaking end for a player who had so much more to give, Cam Rising retires as one of the most beloved and impactful figures in Utah football history. His story serves as a reminder that leadership, heart, and resilience often matter more than just wins and losses.
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