Former Utah QB Jack Tuttle announces retirement after health issues

Michigan's seventh-year signal-caller says he's done to prioritize his health

Utah Football

Jack Tuttle has announced his retirement from football after a series of injuries, including five concussions, led him to prioritize his health. In a social media post, the Michigan quarterback reflected on the challenges he faced over his college career, which included a significant elbow injury that required a UCL repair and left him struggling with lingering issues. Despite returning to the field briefly this season, Tuttle's latest concussion underscored the physical toll football has taken on him, compelling him to step away from the game he loves.

pic.twitter.com/57qzT1DVYc

— Jack Tuttle (@jacktuttle14) October 29, 2024

Tuttle's journey through college football has seen him face adversity and change. Originally signing with Utah out of high school, The original four-star recruit came to Salt Lake City and didn't play behind Jason Shelly in 2018. Tuttle transferred to Indiana, where he played four seasons before joining Michigan in 2023.

He made his first appearance for the Wolverines in Week 6 against Washington and started in their matchup against Illinois, where he completed 20 of 32 passes for 208 yards but also threw an interception in a 21-7 loss. Tuttle's performance showed promise, but his health concerns prevented him from building further on these efforts. Last week, Michigan returned to Davis Warren, their Week 1 starter, for the rivalry game against Michigan State, which ended in a 24-17 win.

Over his career, Tuttle has demonstrated resilience and dedication, amassing 1,337 passing yards and seven touchdowns. Now, as he steps away from playing, Tuttle has expressed a desire to pursue a coaching role, a decision that will allow him to stay connected to the sport while shifting his focus to guiding and mentoring younger players.

Utah's quarterback issues aren't going away anytime soon

With Tuttle’s retirement, Michigan will likely continue with Warren as their starting quarterback, though Alex Orji, last season’s backup to NFL first-round pick J.J. McCarthy, remain with the program. Tuttle’s departure is a loss for the Wolverines, but his journey highlights the importance of prioritizing long-term health in a physically demanding sport.