Illinois QB George Jr. to transfer

Illinois quarterback Jeff George Jr. is leaving the school as a graduate transfer to seek an opportunity elsewhere in 2018 and junior quarterback Chayce Crouch decided to end his career. George, the son of former NFL quarterback Jeff George, announced Wednesday on Twitter his intentions not return for his final two years with the Fighting Illini. As a graduate transfer, he would be eligible to play immediately for another FBS program. "Thank you to Coach (Lovie Smith) and the entire staff for helping me develop over the past couple years," George said. "With that being said, after discussions with Coach Smith as well as my family, it would be in my best interest to pursue my athletic career with 2 years of eligibility left at a school that will best utilize the abilities I have to offer." George added a verse from Scripture, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" -- Jeremiah 29:11" George was one of three Illinois quarterbacks who played last season. In seven games, he passed for 1,273 yards and seven touchdowns but was intercepted 10 times. The fourth-year junior played in 11 games with nine starts in two seasons and completed just 48 percent of his passes for 1,743 yards and 11 touchdowns with 15 interceptions. Crouch began the season as the starter but lost the job and then played two games at tight end before returning to play quarterback. In seven games behind center, he had 443 passing yards with one touchdown and four interceptions. Cam Thomas, a redshirt freshman last fall, is the only remaining scholarship quarterback on the Illinois roster.