TJ Finley: A Journeyman Quarterback’s Next Chapter at Incarnate Word

Journeyman quarterback TJ Finley has made headlines once again by committing to play for Incarnate Word, an FCS institution located in San Antonio, Texas. This move marks the seventh program that the Louisiana native has joined throughout his football career, bringing both excitement and intrigue to his journey.

A Path Less Traveled

Finley’s career has taken him through various significant college programs, including:

• LSU
• Auburn
• Texas State
• Western Kentucky
• Tulane
• Georgia State

His wide-ranging experiences have shaped him into a versatile player, but they have not come without challenges.

Recent Career Highlights

The past few seasons have seen Finley navigate a number of highs and lows. Here are some key highlights:

• 2025 Season with Georgia State:

  • Total Passing Yards: 1,244
  • Touchdowns: 6
  • Interceptions: 7
  • Faced a shoulder injury that limited his performance.
• Best Season at Texas State (2023):
  • Passing Yards: 3,439
  • Touchdowns: 24
  • Rushing Touchdowns: 5

Early Career

Finley’s football journey began at LSU in 2020, stepping in as a true freshman when starting quarterback Myles Brennan was injured. He transitioned to Auburn, where he played in 9 games during 2021 and 4 games the following year before a significant injury led to a redshirt status.

Finley in action while playing for Georgia State against Vanderbilt. Getty Images

Challenges Along the Way

Off-the-Field Incidents

Finley’s path has also been complicated by personal challenges. After transferring to Tulane for the 2025 season, he faced an indefinite suspension following an arrest for possession of stolen property valued over $25,000. The incident, which involved the purchase of a stolen Dodge Ram, led to him entering a diversion program after a court appearance.

Opportunities and Resilience

Despite the setbacks, Finley remains focused on his goals. In a recent interview with NOLA.com, he expressed his intention to play at a seventh college, emphasizing his goal-oriented mindset:

“I set a high standard of what I want to do and what I want to accomplish in my life.”

As a father of three, Finley’s commitment extends beyond the field. He aims to instill in his children the importance of perseverance:

“I think the gifts that God has given me, and the talent that God has given me in the football aspect, it would be a disservice to Him to just give up… you never give up until someone makes you or your body literally can’t go anymore.”

Looking Ahead: Finley at Incarnate Word

The decision to join Incarnate Word offers Finley a fresh start and a chance to demonstrate his abilities on the field once more. With his unique blend of skills and experiences in different competitive environments, he presents a valuable asset to the Cardinals.

As Finley embarks on this new chapter, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he adapts and performs in the upcoming season.

Conclusion

TJ Finley’s journey through college football is a testament to resilience, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence. With his commitment to Incarnate Word, he not only aims to elevate his game but also serve as an inspiration for aspiring athletes facing their own challenges.

For more information on college football transitions and player developments, check out these resources on NCAA football and CBS Sports.

By following his journey, fans can witness the evolution of a player committed to making every opportunity count.