Travis Wilson's return bodes well for Utah's quarterback stability. (Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports)
Utah junior quarterback Travis Wilson received medical clearance on Tuesday to return after it was feared his career might have ended with a head injury last fall.
When Wilson suffered a concussion in November, tests showed that he had a pre-existing head injury that involved intracranial arteries. Recent CT scans indicated the areas of concern in the brain stabilized.
“I’m happy I’ve been cleared to play again,” Wilson said. “My condition is stable and the neurosurgeon predicted it will remain stable in the future. … I feel totally comfortable about returning to football and full contact. I believe I’ve been playing with this condition for a while and never even knew about it. I’m going to keep playing just the way I’ve always played.”
Utah coach Kyle Whittingham welcomed Wilson’s return to contact later in the summer when practices begin.
“Obviously, it’s great news that Travis has been medically cleared to play football again,” Whittingham said. “Travis’ health was our number one concern and we’re relieved for him and his family that he is OK.”
Wilson started as a freshman in 2012 and nine games in 2013 as a sophomore. He was interception-prone last year, throwing 16 along with 16 touchdown passes during the Utes’ 5-7 season.
Among the quarterbacks expected to battle Wilson for the starting job this fall will be Kendal Thompson, a spring transfer from Oklahoma.
