USC announces quarterback is set to transfer

Published Nov. 15, 2016 3:17 p.m. ET

Aaron Torres

Max Browne, a quarterback who started USC's first three games this season — including an embarrassing 52-6 season-opening loss to Alabama — will transfer from the school. Scout.com's "Inside Troy" was the first to report the news, with a USC spokesperson confirming the report.

Browne, a redshirt junior, will be allowed to transfer to any school according to the report. And because he has already completed his undergraduate degree he will be immediately eligible to play next season.

Tuesday's news will bring an end to the career of one of the pillars of the Trojans' program over the last four years. Browne originally committed to USC during a tumultuous 2013 season that began with the Trojans ranked No. 1 in the country, only to see them finish 7-6 and Lane Kiffin fired. Browne stuck by the program during its coaching changes — from Kiffin to Steve Sarkisian to Clay Helton last winter — serving mostly as a back-up to Cody Kessler throughout his career.

Browne finally earned the starting job this season, but after a 1-2 start he was supplanted by redshirt freshman Sam Darnold, who has won four straight games since losing at Utah.

Browne finishes his USC career having completed 69 of 110 passes, with two touchdown passes.

There is no word yet on where he'll finish his career.