ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Jack Tuttle, the quarterback for the Michigan Wolverines, announced his retirement from football on Monday, marking the end of a tumultuous career due to ongoing health issues.
The 25-year-old seventh-year senior from San Marcos, California, shared his decision through a heartfelt Instagram post. “Today, I am announcing my retirement from college football,” Tuttle wrote. “This decision, though difficult, comes after deep reflection and heartfelt conversations with my family, doctors, and loved ones.”
In his announcement, Tuttle cited a UCL (ulnar collateral ligament) injury in his right throwing arm, which he revealed never fully healed and has led to persistent complications. He also mentioned enduring his fifth concussion as a contributing factor to his decision. “Throughout my college career, I’ve battled numerous injuries, culminating in this difficult choice to step away from playing the game that I love,” he explained.
Tuttle started his college football journey at the University of Utah in 2018, although he did not participate in any games during his time there. He transferred to Indiana University the following season, where he played for four years and appeared in 15 games, five of which were as a starter. In 2023, he moved to Michigan as a graduate student, joining a Wolverines team that achieved a perfect 15-0 record and won the College Football Playoff national championship under the guidance of then-head coach Jim Harbaugh.
This season, Tuttle saw action in two games for Michigan. He made his debut on October 5 against Washington and earned his first start on October 19 versus Illinois, completing 20 of 32 passes for 208 yards and one interception in a 21-7 loss. After that game, Davis Warren took over as Michigan’s starting quarterback, having previously led the team to a victory against Michigan State on October 26.
In his emotional farewell, Tuttle expressed gratitude for his experiences in college football. “College football has given me a bunch of memories with amazing people, and it has shaped my character. I am immeasurably thankful for every chance I’ve had to step onto the field and for the unwavering support of those who have stood by me through triumphs and tribulations,” he wrote.
Despite the unfortunate end to his playing career, Tuttle has expressed a desire to remain in football and pursue a coaching role. His retirement follows a similar decision made earlier this month by North Carolina State quarterback Grayson McCall, who stepped away after suffering a concussion during a game against Wake Forest on October 5.
