STARKVILLE — Mississippi State football coach Dan Mullen wasn’t shocked.
Before training camp started, Mullen said he wouldn’t be surprised if one of his four quarterbacks decided to transfer.
On Friday, that became a reality when Mullen announced sophomore Elijah Staley will transfer.
“We met and we talked about it,” Mullen said after Friday’s practice. “I appreciate how he handled everything. He handled everything really well. I don’t take that stuff very lightly. It was a very mature conversation about the future, where we’re at, where he’s at, and what he feels is best. We supported him in that decision.”
The Bulldogs entered fall camp with a four-man quarterback race. With Staley transferring, junior Damian Williams, sophomore Nick Fitzgerald, and redshirt freshman Nick Tiano are competing for the job.
Staley played in two games last season as a redshirt freshman. He was 3 of 5 for 51 yards and one touchdown. He had 18 yards rushing.
A team spokesperson said Staley will be allowed to transfer anywhere he wants, including in the Southeastern Conference.
“After much thought, I have been granted my release and will be transferring from Mississippi State. I would like to thank the bulldog fans, community and coaching staff for this opportunity the past two years. I look forward to continuing my football career at another school, and I am excited about what is in store for the future! Thanks for all your support and #Hailstate,” Staley tweeted.
Staley signed with the Bulldogs as a dual-sport athlete in February 2014. He began to practice with the men’s basketball team in December 2014, but an injury sidelined him. He missed spring football practice because of the injury.
Staley played in two basketball games this past season, but he decided to give up basketball to focus on football.
Staley wasn’t at MSU’s scrimmage Thursday night at Davis Wade Stadium.
Although Mullen anticipated a quarterback transferring, he said the decision wasn’t easy.
“We went through all different steps of all different scenarios and possibilities,” Mullen said. “I think when you do that, it’s not an emotional decision.
“I think he was getting a great opportunity here, but I think in his decision he thought, ‘I might not be ready right now and is that going to put me behind later on?’ This was the time for him to go get a fresh start. If you wait too long, you can’t get that fresh start.”
By transferring before the season starts, Staley will have two years of eligibility. If he transfers to a Division I school, he will have to sit out this season.
Follow Dispatch sports writer Ben Wait on Twitter @bcwait
Ben Wait reports on Mississippi State University sports for The Dispatch.
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