Auburn head coach Gus Malzahn has spoken out about John Franklin III, who announced his decision to transfer from the school on Tuesday.

“John Franklin came to me expressing his desire for the chance to play more and get closer to home,” Malzahn said in a statement confirming the news. “He has made the decision to play elsewhere this season as a graduate transfer. John has been an outstanding young man during his time here and leaves Auburn with a degree. We wish John nothing but the best and thank him for his time at Auburn.”

Malzahn also noted in his statement that Franklin III is from Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., so moving closer to home may make sense. Initial reports indicate Franklin will team up with Lane Kiffin at FAU.

Malzahn announced just yesterday that Baylor transfer Jarrett Stidham would be the Tigers’ starting quarterback in Week 1 against Georgia Southern.

Backup QB Sean White seemed to support the move Monday, announcing he was “All In.”