A day many around Austin feared would happen came true on Wednesday.
Quarterback David Ash informed the Texas coaching staff that he would no longer play football for the team after concussion-like symptoms knocked him out of action again in 2014.
"Had a chance today to talk to David Ash, and he decided that he's no longer going to play ball," Longhorns head coach Charlie Strong told reporters at a press conference. "His health is our major concern."
The 6-foot-3, 230-pounder from Belton, Texas was the team's starter for much of the 2012 season as he guided the program to a 9-3 record. Ash was expected to be a steady presence under center heading into the following season, but suffered a concussion against BYU. He eventually returned to action later in 2013, but was soon lost for the season after experiencing lingering symptoms.
The story was much the same this year for Ash, who never could stay healthy enough to play for Texas. He played well under the new staff in the spring, but broke his foot halfway through practices and was lost for most of the summer. In the team's opener against North Texas, Ash played almost the entire game but later told coaches that he was experiencing dizziness and headaches later that night.
In his career on the 40 Acres, Ash played in 29 games, throwing for 4,728 yards and 31 touchdowns.
After the announcement was made, many of the quarterback's teammates and Texas supporters took to Twitter to wish him well.
"As long as he stays a part of it, it will be great for our program," Strong added.
With Ash out of the picture, sophomore Tyrone Swoopes is set to be the team's starter the rest of the season. The dual-threat quarterback has completed 68 percent of his passes so far this year and thrown three touchdown passes.
One can't help but cringe when hearing stories like Ash's, but hopefully the 22 year old won't experience any further concussion-related issues after giving up football and understanding health is far more important than the sport.
Follow Bryan Fischer on Twitter @BryanDFischer.
