Cam Rising retirement: Former Utah QB to become offensive coordinator at high school alma mater

After announcing his medical retirement from football, former Utah quarterback Cam Rising is heading to the coaching ranks. He is expected to become the offensive coordinator at his alma mater, Newbury Park (Calif.), On3’s Hayes Fawcett reported.

Rising could have tried for a medical hardship and an eighth year of college football, but ultimately chose to retire. He began his career at Texas before making his way to Utah, playing seven years between the two programs.

Now, Rising is set to return to his high school alma mater as offensive coordinator. That means he’s in line to work closely with Michigan 2026 four-star quarterback commit Brady Smigiel this coming season.

BREAKING: Cam Rising is set to become the OC at his alma mater, Newbury Park High School, a source told @on3sports

He announced earlier today that he is medically retiring from football

Newbury Park is home to 2026 Michigan QB Commit Brady Smigielhttps://t.co/rOHbLqQupR pic.twitter.com/FoUQWYwHs6

— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) May 7, 2025

Rising put together a decorated career at Newbury Park. He threw for 1,689 yards and 15 touchdowns as a senior while adding 496 rushing yards and nine touchdowns on the ground. He was also the 2017 All-Camino League Offensive Back of the Year, as well as a member of the track team.

Now, he’ll get ready to coach Smigiel, who’s a key part of Michigan’s 2026 recruiting class. A four-star prospect, he is the No. 92 overall player and No. 9-ranked quarterback from the cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

Injuries got in the way of Cam Rising’s career at Utah, which included back-to-back Rose Bowl appearances. He suffered a hand injury in 2024 against Baylor and missed the rest of the season, although he could have tried for a hardship for another season. Ultimately, after consulting with two doctors, he will be stepping away from the game.

“Due to a hand injury I suffered during the Baylor game, I’ve been advised by two orthopedic physicians that I will never be able to return to playing football,” Rising said in a statement. “I’ll be obtaining a 3rd medical opinion and will undergo the recommended surgery. I will continue to rehab and do all I can to get healthy. In the meantime, I will unfortunately be forced to medically retire from the game I love.

“My why has always been my family. I have always thought of my teammates as my brothers and always will. Thank you guys for always pushing me to improve and just making this game enjoyable. Thank you to the coaches for guiding me in the right direction to become a better man and football player. Coach Ludwig, thank you for turning me into a football nerd and showing me the correct way to respect that game. Lastly, thank you to all the fans and everyone that supported me throughout my career. You all made the moments special.”