After his promising season as Florida's starting quarterback came to an abrupt end with a performance-enhancing drug suspension, Will Grier will seek a transfer.
Citing unnamed sources within the Florida football program, Scout.com first reported on Saturday that Grier told his coaches he wanted to transfer. He does not appear to have a decided on a destination.
Fox Sports' Bruce Feldman later confirmed the news with his own unnamed sources, and the school later confirmed the news in a formal statement.
QB Will Grier is transferring from #UF source tells @FoxSports. The former Gator starter met with the staff last week.
— Bruce Feldman (@BruceFeldmanCFB) December 19, 2015
"Will came to me about exploring his options to transfer,'' Florida head football coach Jim McElwain said in the news release. "We will support him and help him in anyway we can. This has been very difficult on him and obviously he is looking for a fresh start.
"We will always be there for him as will all Gators."
A redshirt freshman, Grier's first game as the Gators' starting QB was a week-four win against Tennessee, followed by an upset victory over an Ole Miss team ranked third overall at the time. Following Florida's sixth straight win to open its season, the NCAA announced Grier tested positive for PEDs and would be suspended for one full calendar year. His appeal was denied last month and the QB would remain ineligible through week six of next season.
Though Grier's eligibility to play at all next season is in doubt because of the transfer, his prospects at Florida took a hit when McElwain added Feleipe Franks to his incoming recruiting class. Franks plans to enroll early in order to be eligible to play next season and will likely compete with Treon Harris for the starting QB position.
Florida is scheduled to play Michigan for the Buffalo Wild Wings Citrus Bowl on Jan. 1.
