Utah quarterback Isaac Wilson will enter the transfer portal, he announced in a social media post Sunday.
A source close to the situation told The Salt Lake Tribune that Wilson made the decision because the Utes and new offensive coordinator Jason Beck have an apparent interest in New Mexico transfer quarterback Devon Dampier.
Dampier has not announced where he will play next season. If he were to land with his former offensive coordinator Beck in Salt Lake City, a quarterback competition between the newcomer and the former four-star recruit Wilson would’ve ensued. There were reservations around that possibility from Wilson’s camp, the source said, due to Dampier having two years of eligibility remaining and already having familiarity with Beck’s system.
The source spoke on condition of anonymity so that they could speak candidly on the matter.
Members of Utah’s staff, including Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham, wanted to keep Wilson on the roster, the source said. There is still a chance for Wilson to return to Salt Lake City if Utah doesn’t bring in Dampier, the source said.
“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the University of Utah for the incredible opportunities, support, and experiences I’ve had during my time here,” Wilson said in a statement on Instagram. “To the coaches, teammates, and everyone who believed in me — thank you for helping me grow both on and off the field. The memories made and lessons learned will stay with me forever. To the amazing fans, your unwavering support has meant the world to me and has been a constant source of motivation.”
The Corner Canyon product became the Utes’ starter after senior Cam Rising was injured in the second week of the season. He threw for 1,510 yards and 10 touchdowns as a freshman. But Wilson had an up-and-down campaign and was benched in favor of sophomore Brandon Rose at one point.
Wilson still has three years of eligibility and a redshirt.
“I am excited for what the future holds as I continue to pursue my goals in football and beyond,” he wrote.
Wilson’s departure would leave Utah’s quarterback corps extremely thin at the moment.
Rose announced on Saturday that he would be entering the portal. On Sunday, just hours after Wilson made his announcement, Utah backup QB Sam Huard revealed he would be entering the portal as well.
Rising has yet to announce his plans for next season. He could potentially return for an eighth season of college football.
The NCAA transfer portal opens on Monday.
About a dozen Utes have already announced plans to explore their options elsewhere, including punter Jack Bouwmeester, defensive back John Randle II, running back Dijon Stanley, defensive lineman Simote Pepa and linebacker Sione Fotu.
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