Florida State released quarterback Clint Trickett from his scholarship to allow him to transfer to another school.
Trickett, who will graduate in May but has one year of eligibility remaining, was battling with sophomore Jacob Coker and freshmen Jameis Winston and Sean Maguire to replace departed E.J. Manuel as the starter.
Entering the spring, Trickett was thought to be the front-runner for the job. But Winston appears to have the inside track after completing 12 of 15 passes for 205 yards and two touchdowns in the spring game last Saturday.
“After a long meeting with Clint, he expressed he’d like to explore another playing opportunity, and I’ve signed off on his wish,” Seminoles coach Jimbo Fisher said.
Trickett started two games as an injury replacement for Manuel in 2011, He threw for 333 yards and three touchdowns in a game against Clemson. Last season, Trickett was Manuel’s backup.