Three months ago, it appeared that Utah’s Travis Wilson’s career may be cut short after a pre-existing neurological condition was discovered after he underwent concussion testing. On Monday, however, the quarterback received good news – he was cleared by doctors to participate in non-contact drills when the Utes begin spring practice next month.
Doctors have monitored Wilson, who will be a junior next season, since the intracranial arterial condition was discovered after Wilson suffered a concussion against Arizona State on Nov. 9. At the time, he was immediately ruled out for the season and his career was in question.
“We are very excited,” Wilson’s mother, JoMarie, told the Salt Lake Tribune. “It has taken a lot of pressure off him. He has been trying to hold it together.”
Wilson will continue to undergo testing while doctors try to assess whether there is a serious health risk before the upcoming season. The 6-foot-7, 240-pound Wilson has started 16 games for the Utes over the past two seasons and would be expected to regain his starting role if ultimately approved for contact by doctors.
“Travis’ most recent studies have all been stable,” Utah team doctor David Petron said in a statement. “He has been cleared to return to non-contact practice with the team and he will be re-evaluated in July.”
According to the Tribune, Wilson underwent examinations in Salt Lake City and in California to evaluate his condition over the past few months. Doctors are still unsure as to why the condition developed, but Wilson’s mother approved the doctor’s decision to allow him to participate.
“They will make sure he will be monitored, but it will be great seeing him back on the field,” she said. “I’m totally confident in the doctors and Travis. The team is behind him too. They love him.”
Wilson was 4-5 in nine games as the Utes’ starter in 2013 and threw for 1,827 yards, 16 touchdowns and 16 interceptions. After Wilson was sidelined, Utah lost two of its last three games to finish 5-7.
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