In the ever-evolving world of college football, few stories have been as intriguing as TJ Finley's journey. This week, it took another unexpected turn when it was announced that Finley would not be continuing with the Incarnate Word program. Instead, he has set his sights on entering the 2026 NFL Draft.
Finley's college career has been a whirlwind, to say the least. Starting as a 4-star recruit with LSU back in 2019, his path has been anything but straightforward.
Incarnate Word marked his seventh stop, following stints at LSU, Auburn, Texas State, Western Kentucky, and Georgia State. It's been a journey filled with ups and downs, with Finley often changing jerseys like a seasoned traveler switching flights.
The decision to leave Incarnate Word stems from his ambition to take a shot at the NFL. While some might raise an eyebrow at this move, Finley's determination is evident.
His standout season came in 2023 with Texas State, where he threw for 3,434 yards and 24 touchdowns against eight interceptions. It was a glimpse of the potential that once made him a coveted recruit.
However, consistency has been elusive. His time at Georgia State in 2025 was challenging, with the team managing just one win in six starts and Finley recording six touchdowns to seven interceptions. These numbers might not jump off the page for NFL scouts, but Finley's resilience and moments of brilliance, like his memorable fourth-down pass to Shedrick Jackson in 2021, continue to fuel his dream.
As Finley prepares for the next chapter, his journey serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of college football careers. While the road has been rocky, his story isn't over yet. Here's hoping the NFL Draft brings a new beginning for this determined quarterback.