Rice QB JT Daniels medically retiring

Former top recruit JT Daniels is retiring from football due to multiple concussions and plans to pursue a coaching career.

Rice quarterback JT Daniels, a former top recruit who transferred three times in his college career, is announcing his retirement from football due to multiple concussions. In an interview with ESPN, Daniels revealed that he plans to pursue a coaching career moving forward.

The decision comes after Daniels suffered a concussion during a game against SMU on November 4th, leading doctors to advise him against continuing to play. Despite playing in nine games this season and throwing for 2,443 yards and 21 touchdowns with seven interceptions, the 23-year-old has decided to prioritize his health and future by retiring from the sport.

Expressing his enthusiasm for coaching, Daniels stated, "I'm definitely excited to get into coaching, that's for sure. I loved playing. I always knew one day I'd coach. I didn't think it would come this soon. But one day, I knew that's what I was going to be doing."

Daniels' college career has been marked by transfers, having previously played for USC, Georgia, and West Virginia. He began his journey as a highly-touted recruit from Mater Dei High in Southern California, making history as just the second true freshman to start at quarterback for USC in a season opener in 2018. Despite early success, injuries and setbacks ultimately led him to pursue opportunities at other schools.

After a stint at West Virginia, Daniels found a fitting environment at Rice, where he thrived in a pro-style offense. His performance helped the Owls achieve six wins for the first time since 2014, and he expressed his intentions for this to be his final college season, with hopes of pursuing a career in the NFL. Unfortunately, his retirement has dashed those aspirations.

In Daniels' absence, redshirt freshman A.J. Padgett has stepped up as the starting quarterback for Rice, showing promise and securing two wins in the team's last three games. As the Owls prepare for their upcoming bowl game, Padgett is expected to continue leading the team, supported by true freshman Chase Jenkins.

Despite the unexpected end to his college career, Daniels remains optimistic about his future in coaching and is grateful for the opportunities he had on the field. His decision to retire serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing health and well-being in the pursuit of athletic success.