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

Rising, aged 25, shared on social media Wednesday that he would be leaving football due to medical reasons following a hand injury sustained in a game against Baylor in September.

“Because of a hand injury I suffered during the Baylor game, I’ve been informed by two orthopedic specialists that I will never be able to return to playing football,” Rising stated. “I’ll be seeking a third medical opinion and will proceed with the recommended surgery. I will keep rehabbing and do everything possible to get healthy. Meanwhile, I unfortunately have to medically retire from the game I cherish.

“My motivation has always been my family. I have always considered my teammates like my brothers and always will. Thank you all for continuously pushing me to improve and for making this game fun. Thank you to the coaches for steering me in the right direction to become a better person and athlete. Coach Ludwig, thank you for making me a football enthusiast and teaching me the proper respect for the game. Lastly, thank you to all the fans and everyone who supported me throughout my career. You all made the experiences unforgettable.”

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.