Utah Utes quarterback Cam Rising has made the difficult decision to medically retire from football due to a hand injury he sustained during a game earlier this season. In a candid social media post titled “Bad Moon Out,” Rising disclosed that two orthopedic specialists advised him that he would “never” be able to return to the sport, prompting his retirement after a tumultuous career marked by multiple injuries.
Despite having the opportunity to return for an eighth season, the former four-star recruit from the class of 2018 confirmed that he will undergo surgery and focus on rehabilitating his injured hand. Rising’s path to this decision highlights the realities faced by many athletes who deal with persistent injuries throughout their careers.
Rising gained recognition for leading the Utes to their first two Pac-12 championships in 2021 and 2022, but his career was also defined by injuries. He first suffered a season-ending shoulder injury in the 2020 opener and then, after taking over as starting quarterback in 2021, he faced a significant knee injury in the Rose Bowl against Penn State. This past season, he was sidelined after a hand injury in Week 2 and suffered a lower-body injury in Week 7, which ultimately led to his indefinite absence from play.
As uncertainty surrounds his next steps—whether he will consider the NFL draft or pursue other opportunities—Rising’s legacy remains firmly established in Salt Lake City, where he is remembered not only for his talent but also for his resilience in the face of adversity. His journey is a testament to the unpredictable nature of sports and the unwavering spirit of athletes who seek to overcome challenges. Rising’s story serves as an inspiration to many, and while this chapter closes, there is hope that he will find new passions beyond football.