Texas QB transferring ahead of College Football Playoff

Nov 5, 2016; Lubbock, TX, USA; A University of Texas Longhorns helmet sits on the bench during the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Jones AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

The Texas Longhorns are currently preparing for their biggest game in well over a decade, and one notable player is not remaining with the team to see things through.

Texas backup quarterback Maalik Murphy announced on Wednesday that he has entered the transfer portal. The redshirt freshman told ESPN’s Pete Thamel that the timing of the decision made it extremely difficult.

“I hate it, I hate it,” Murphy said. “I’m super invested in this team. Everything that we’ve done along the way and all the work we’ve put in together, it’s hard to walk away, especially at this point during the season.”

Murphy started two games for Texas this season when Quinn Ewers was out with an injury. He threw for 418 yards, 3 touchdowns and 3 interceptions during those games, both of which the Longhorns won.

Given his experience and the three years of eligibility he has remaining, Murphy will immediately become one of the most coveted quarterbacks on the transfer market. He said he is leaving Texas ahead of the College Football Playoff because he will need time to find the right spot.

“It’s nothing against Texas at all,” Murphy said. “I’m doing this purely for me and my future. In my eyes, I’ll always be a Longhorn and a part of this great team.”

Ewers seems to be leaning toward returning to Texas next season. Texas also has another very prominent quarterback on their roster, so it makes sense that Murphy is leaving.

Murphy played a big role in helping Texas get to the College Football Playoff. While that likely increased his value to other schools, it must make his impending departure bittersweet.