ANN ARBOR, Mich. – It came as a surprise to most when Michigan quarterback Jack Tuttle announced his retirement from football on Monday night.
Here’s what we know:
Timing of retirement
The Wolverines are currently eight games into the season, and Tuttle was the starter two games ago against Illinois after coming into the Washington game and playing well.
Tuttle struggled against the Illini, throwing for 208 yards but turning the ball over twice -- one lost fumble and one interception.
Michigan went back to the Game 1 starter, Davis Warren, against Michigan State, and also mixed in some running packages for Alex Orji. But Tuttle didn’t get into the game.
Reason for retirement
The reason for Tuttle’s midseason retirement became clear on Monday night, when he posted a statement on social media.
“Unfortunately, the recent experience of enduring my fifth concussion has brought forth the painful truth: that I need to start prioritizing my health," Tuttle wrote.
It wasn’t previously reported that Tuttle had experienced a concussion, but that certainly explains his absence last weekend and his decision to retire.
7-year college career
Tuttle is 25 years old and spent seven seasons in college football.
He originally committed to Utah, but left after one season and went to Indiana for four years.
The last two seasons, Tuttle has been with the Wolverines. He won a Big Ten title and national championship during their 15-0 campaign in 2023, and then received an additional year of eligibility for 2024.
The 2020 COVID season didn‘t count against Tuttle’s eligibility, and he also redshirted in 2018, when he didn’t appear in a game at Utah.
A UCL injury in his throwing arm derailed his 2023 season, and that’s why he received a medical waiver to return for one more year.
Career stats
In four seasons with Indiana, Tuttle played in 15 games and completed 104 of 182 passes for 901 yards, five touchdowns, and six interceptions.
He appeared in six games for Michigan last year, completing 15-of-17 attempts for 130 yards and a score. He also rushed for 35 yards.
This season, between the Washington and Illinois games, Tuttle went 30-for-50 for 306 yards, one touchdown, and two picks.
He finishes his college career with 1,337 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and eight interceptions in 23 games.
Tuttle staying with team
Even though he‘s putting down the Winged helmet, Tuttle said he’ll still finish out the season with his team.
"I will continue to help Team 145 as we prepare for the rest of this season," Tuttle wrote.
What’s next for Tuttle
Tuttle said he hopes to continue his football career as a coach.
“Though closing this chapter is unfortunate, my passion for football will always be a part of me,” Tuttle said. “I am committed to finding a different role in the game and plan to pursue a role in coaching.”
He’s been around the game for a long time and learned from several different coaches, so Tuttle certainly could find himself a coaching job.
Michigan QB situation
Michigan got some fairly effective quarterback play against the Spartans on Saturday night. Warren threw for 123 yards and a touchdown, while Orji carried the ball six times for 64 yards and a score.
It’s been a rocky road for Michigan passers this season, but the Wolverines will likely try to roll with that combination going forward. The schedule is about to get much tougher, with undefeated Oregon and Indiana coming up, and a trip to Columbus on the horizon.
Warren has completed 61 of 91 passes this season (67%) for 567 yards, three touchdowns, and six interceptions.
Orji is just 23-for-43 for 148 yards, three scores, and a pick, but he’s also rushed for 188 yards and a touchdown on 41 carries.
Full statement
Here’s the full statement Tuttle posted on Monday night:
Today, I am announcing my retirement from college football. This decision, though difficult, comes after deep reflection and heartfelt conversations with my family, doctors, and loved ones.
The past year has been challenging, marked by a UCL repair in my throwing arm that I didn‘t fully recover from, which has caused ongoing issues. And unfortunately, the recent experience of enduring my fifth concussion has brought forth the painful truth: that I need to start prioritizing my health. Throughout my college career, I’ve battled numerous injuries, culminating in this difficult choice to step away from playing the game that I love.
College football has given me a bunch of memories in my life 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. I want to thank Coach (Sherrone) Moore, the staff and my teammates -- I love all of you guys. I will continue to help Team 145 as we prepare for the rest of this season.
Though closing this chapter is unfortunate, my passion for football will always be a part of me. I am committed to finding a different role in the game and plan to pursue a role in coaching.
Michigan QB Jack Tuttle
