JT Daniels, the quarterback at Rice and a former top recruit who transferred three times throughout his collegiate career announced on Friday to ESPN that he was medically retiring due to repeated concussions. Even though he might no longer be playing, this is only the start of a new chapter in his life as he intends to become a coach.
| Table of Contents |
| The Concussion and Medical Advice |
| USC Debut |
| Injury-Plagued Years |
| Rice – A New Beginning |
| The Impact on Rice |
The Concussion and Medical Advice
JT Daniels didn’t have an easy time deciding to quit. It followed a concussion he had on November 4 against SMU. Experts in medicine recommended him against going back onto the field, putting his long-term well-being first. For someone as talented as Daniels, in particular, this tragedy served as a sobering reminder of the perils associated with the sport.
Rice quarterback JT Daniels is medically retiring from football after suffering multiple concussions, per @PeteThamel pic.twitter.com/fXLw0HaSBw
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) December 1, 2023
It’s not like the college quarterback you know. Before settling down at Rice, Daniels attended West Virginia, USC, and Georgia.
USC Debut
As only the second true freshman to start at quarterback for USC in the season opener, Daniels garnered attention in 2018. In his first season, he started 11 games and showed off his enormous potential. But his path took an unforeseen diversion.
Later, Daniels transferred to Georgia, but his time there was hampered by injuries, and in the end, Stetson Bennett took over as the main quarterback. Bennett did, however, lead the Bulldogs to a national title.
Injury-Plagued Years
A knee injury sustained in Week 1 of 2019 disrupted Daniels’ strong start, preventing him from playing in more than one game. Setbacks with injuries plagued his career at USC, providing room for other quarterbacks to flourish.
Rice – A New Beginning
Daniels arrived at Rice after a circuitous undergraduate career, where he appeared to have at last discovered his calling. His skill set was enhanced by Rice’s pro-style offense, which led to a breakout year with 21 touchdowns and six victories for the Owls—their first since 2014.
The Impact on Rice
Rice University now has to figure out how to go without its standout quarterback. In Daniels’ place, redshirt freshman A.J. Padgett has proven himself adequate with a 2-1 record. Padgett is expected to start in Rice’s next bowl game, with Chase Jenkins, a true freshman, filling in as backup.
To sum up, the medical retirement of JT Daniels serves as a reminder of the physical toll that collegiate football can have on its players. Even while it could be the end of his playing days, it’s the beginning of a new chapter in his life as a coach.
FAQs
Why did JT Daniels decide to retire?
JT Daniels decided to retire due to multiple concussions, with medical professionals advising against further play for the sake of his health.
Did JT Daniels play college football?
Daniels’ career saw highs and lows, with standout moments at USC and a national championship run with Georgia.
Who will replace JT Daniels at Rice?
Redshirt freshman A.J. Padgett has stepped in as the starting quarterback for Rice, with true freshman Chase Jenkins as a backup option.
What’s next for JT Daniels after retirement?
JT Daniels plans to pursue a coaching career in football.
How many touchdowns did JT Daniels throw during his college career?
Over 41 college games, JT Daniels threw for 66 touchdowns in total.