‘It’s where my heart’s at’: UCF QB McKenzie Milton to transfer to another school

ORLANDO, Fla. — University of Central Florida’s quarterback McKenzie Milton announced Thursday that he will be transferring to another school.

Milton has not played since 2018, when he severely injured his right leg in a game against South Florida. He has been on the road to recovery ever since.

READ: UCF quarterback optimistic about returning after recovering from severe leg injury

“UCF’s done way more for me and my family — than I can ever do for them,” Milton said. “They saved my leg, too, man. I wouldn’t be able to play football again if it wasn’t for UCF.”

Throughout the recovery process, Milton has remained optimistic he will return to the football field.

READ: UCF switching to online classes after Thanksgiving break

Milton told his teammates about his decision on Thursday morning, after multiple conversations in recent days with Gabriel and UCF coach Josh Heupel, who was hoping to talk him into staying, ESPN reported.

He said he hopes to find a new school in time for the spring semester in January, so he can start to get to know his new teammates and the coaches, ESPN reported.

“It’s hard,” Milton said. “It’s one of the hardest things for me to do but it just makes the most sense. I’m trying to think of it more logically than emotionally. It’s where my heart’s at.”

Milton has accounted for 9,761 yards of total offense and 92 combined touchdowns in his UCF career.

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“My knee’s strong, all the ligaments are completely intact, I’m stronger than I’ve ever been, and I’ll continue to attack my rehab,” Milton told ESPN. “Even though I’m cleared, I know there’s still some work to be done, just stacking day after day by the time August rolls around I know it’s going to be like clockwork playing ball again. I’m really excited for that.”

Watch Channel 9 Eyewitness News at Noon for more on this developing story.

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