The Utah Utes faced a significant setback during their matchup against the Kansas State Wildcats on September 13, 2025, as star defensive end John Henry Daley exited the game due to a noncontact injury in the first quarter. Daley, who has been a vital player for the Utes, was visibly in distress after the injury, which occurred while he was running in open field.
Witnesses reported that Daley immediately reached for his left leg, prompting concern from teammates and coaching staff. He was assisted off the field by two Utah defenders, struggling to put weight on his injured leg. The situation intensified as he was escorted to the locker room by Utah’s athletic trainers, leaving fans and players anxious about his condition.
As Daley was being treated, Kansas State capitalized on the Utes’ momentary distraction, scoring a touchdown and taking a 14-7 lead with 14:54 remaining in the second quarter. The injury marred an otherwise promising start for the Utes, who were relying on Daley’s defensive prowess.
Before his exit, Daley had recorded two sacks and four tackles, demonstrating his impact on the field. He entered the game ranked seventh in the nation for total sacks, making his presence crucial for Utah’s defensive strategy.
The Utes’ coaching staff will need to assess the extent of Daley’s injury in the coming days to determine his availability for future games. The team will be looking to bounce back, not only from the loss of their star player but also from the game itself, as they aim to maintain their competitive edge in the Big 12 Conference.
Updates on Daley’s condition and additional analysis on the Utes’ performance will follow as more information becomes available. Fans hope for a swift recovery for their star defensive end, who has been a key figure in Utah’s defensive lineup this season.
