Clemson's Hunter Johnson to transfer

Clemson sophomore quarterback and former prized recruit Hunter Johnson will transfer from the program.

"While it is always disappointing to lose a great person and a great player, I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to work with Hunter and watch him grow and develop over the last year and a half," head coach Dabo Swinney said in a statement obtained by Ralph Russo of the Associated Press. "Hunter is one of the best young men I have ever coached and has a very bright future ahead of him. I wish him all the best as he decides on his destination."

Johnson was the top-ranked pocket passer in 2017, but lost the battle for last season's starting job to Kelly Bryant before ultimately splitting backup duties with Zerrick Cooper.

With Trevor Lawrence, the No. 1 overall recruit in 2018, set to join Clemson, Johnson had no realistic path to the starting gig.

Cooper and Tucker Israel have also both transferred away from the program this year, leaving Clemson in need of bolstering its depth at quarterback.