N.C. State quarterback Grayson McCall announced his retirement from football in a social media post Wednesday night, pointing to an injury “I cannot come back from.”

McCall, a Coastal Carolina transfer and team captain in his first season with the Wolfpack, has a history of head injuries.

“Unfortunately, my dream has been cut just short,” McCall wrote in an Instagram post. “As you all know I have battled injuries my whole career, but this is one that I cannot come back from. I have done everything I can to continue, but this is where the good Lord has called me to serve in a different space. Brain specialists, my family, and I have come to the conclusion that it is in my best interest to hang the cleats up.

“As I feel like my whole world is being taken from me, I feel some sense of contentment. Every time my feet hit the grass, I left every single ounce of myself on that field. I always played my hardest and to the best of my ability because I never knew what play would be my last. I have no regrets throughout my career and that is something I can be proud of.”

McCall started the first three games this season before exiting in the first half against Louisiana Tech.

After a two-game absence, McCall returned against Wake Forest in Week 6 before appearing to be knocked out on a vicious hit that resulted in McCall’s helmet flying off. He was put on a stretcher, carried off the field and entered the concussion protocol.

McCall, who missed the final six games of his career with the Chanticleers, was reportedly knocked unconscious and carted off the field before spending the night in a hospital after a hit against Arkansas State in the 2023 season.

A three-time Sun Belt Conference player of the year at Coastal Carolina, McCall completed 69.9% of his passes for 10,005 yards and 88 touchdowns in five seasons with the Chanticleers. He also ran for 1,113 yards and 18 TDs.

Despite the setback, McCall is ready to transition into a new role within his favorite sport.

“I look forward to taking my passion and love for the game into the coaching space to serve and lead the next group of kids with a dream,” he said.

Staff writer Rodd Baxley can be reached at rbaxley@fayobserver.com or @RoddBaxley on X/Twitter.

This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: Grayson McCall: NC State quarterback to retire from football after injury