Report: Jim McElwain grants Jeff Driskel's release from Florida

Florida head coach Jim McElwain has granted quarterback Jeff Driskel’s release from the program, according to Edgar Thompson of the Orlando Sentinel.

#Gators coach Jim McElwain said Jeff Driskel has been given his release. “I’m not going to hold him hostage.”

— Edgar Thompson (@osgators) January 3, 2015

Related: Report: Florida QB Jeff Driskel considering transfer to Duke

Driskel, a former five-star prospect, opened the season as Florida’s starter, but struggled through six starts before being benched for freshman Treon Harris. The redshirt junior threw for 1,092 yards, nine touchdowns and 10 interceptions on 106-of-195 passing, while rushing for 173 yards and four touchdowns on 66 attempts.

Earlier this week, multiple outlets reported that Driskel was considering a transfer to Duke. According to The News Observer, the quarterback sent a release to the Blue Devils, allowing coach David Cutcliffe and his staff to contact him. Driskel would be granted immediate eligibility due to the graduate transfer rule, and Duke needs a quarterback following the departure of senior Anthony Boone.