Notre Dame football coach Brian Kelly has confirmed that backup quarterback Gunner Kiel does intend to transfer before next season. 

When asked about his feelings towards the move, Kelly said, "We had kind of created an opportunity for him to compete in the spring, so maybe a little surprised from that standpoint, because he was actually told he'd be given the opportunity to compete. Sometimes when you don't hear that, you wouldn't be surprised.”

While it’s unknown as to where the young talent might have his sights set on, Kiel will not be allowed to play for any FBS team in the upcoming season.  Kiel will likely sit out next season and will then have 3 years of eligibility in the FBS.  Kiel must feel the transfer will be better for his career in the long run and Kelly can understand. 

"While we are sad when kids don't go through the entire program, we want what's best for them. We are educators as well as coaches,” Kelly said of his former player. 

Kiel will only be allowed to play for a non-FBS team  next season and that’s highly unlikely for a player of his callbore.  With Kiel’s departure, Everett Golson, Tommy Rees, Charlie Fiessinger, and Andrew Hendrix are set to battle in spring to be the Notre Dame starting quarterback.