Tigers to Tigers: Clemson graduate transfer QB Kelly Bryant picks Missouri

Nearly two full months since he announced his intent to transfer, Kelly Bryant has made his decision known.

The former Clemson starting quarterback will play his final year in college at Missouri.

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ryant was a former four-star quarterback recruit out of Piedmont, S.C., and committed to Clemson in the 2015 recruiting class. He played sparingly in his first two years in Clemson, backing up Deshaun Watson. In those years, Bryant appeared in 12 games, attempting 18 passes and running for 178 yards and three touchdowns.

In his one full year as a starter for Clemson, Bryant led the Tigers to the College Football Playoff before losing in the Sugar Bowl to eventual-champion Alabama.

This season, Bryant began as Clemson’s starter before being unseated by star freshman Trevor Lawrence. After four games, Bryant announced his intent to transfer from Clemson.

Kelly Bryant career stats

• Passing: 310-469 (66.1-percent), 3333 yards, 16 TDs, 10 INTs (132.8 rating)
• Rushing: 257 carries, 987 yards, 16 TDs

Bryant should immediately slide into Missouri’s vacancy at quarterback with the departure of Drew Lock, and he won’t lack for talent surrounding him. Missouri should return its three leading rushers in Larry Rountree, Damarea Crockett and Tyler Badie, along with three of its five starting offensive linemen — including first-team AP All-SEC team member Trevour Wallace-Simms.

While Emanuel Hall will depart, Missouri returns its next four leading receivers (should Albert Okwuegbunam not explore the draft).

Bryant’s addition for Missouri means a steady, experienced hand behind center. While the offense will certainly adapt, Bryant should allow Missouri to have a potent attack in 2019.