Reports: Notre Dame QB Malik Zaire to seek graduate transfer

Notre Dame quarterback Malik Zaire is expected to meet with head coach Brian Kelly on Wednesday to gain his release and pursue a graduate transfer, per a report by Irish Illustrated’s Pete Sampson.

Zaire will graduate in December with one year of eligibility remaining.

Zaire was the starting quarterback for Notre Dame’s 2015 season-opener against Texas, but then suffered a season-ending injury against Virginia. He competed with DeShone Kizer in the spring to regain his starting role, but after playing sparingly in the season opener, Zaire ultimately became the Irish’s backup.

Zaire finished the 2016 season completing just 11 of 23 passes for 122 yards a touchdown. The touchdown came against USC last weekend in what would be his final pass at Notre Dame. Zaire never threw more than 40 passes in any of his three seasons with the Irish.

According to Irish Illustrated Florida, Pittsburgh, Michigan State and Wisconsin are among the contenders for Zaire, who will be highly sought as a graduate transfer.

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Graham Watson is the editor of Dr. Saturday on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email her at dr.saturday@ymail.com or follow her on Twitter! Follow @YahooDrSaturday