Manhattan ? Senior quarterback Allen Webb, who was expected to battle for the starting job at Kansas State entering fall practice, will instead transfer to an NAIA school in Texas.

The 22-year-old Denver native issued a statement Wednesday announcing his decision to enroll at Texas College in Tyler, Texas, where he will be eligible immediately.

On Thursday, Kansas State put out its own release announcing Webb’s departure and stating, “Attempts to reach Webb, who is attending a family reunion in Florida, were unsuccessful.”

The 6-foot-3, 210-pound Webb began his career at Indiana and transferred to Kansas State in 2003. NCAA rules would have prevented him from attending another Division I school without forfeiting a year of eligibility – his only year remaining.

Webb’s status had been in question since the spring, when he missed the start of practice for undisclosed reasons. In his release, Webb said, “I understand the message being given to me.”

He returned to practice and completed 5-of-6 passes in the spring game, leading his side to two scores. He was among five quarterbacks who coach Ron Prince said would compete for the starting job.

But in April, redshirt freshman Kevin Lopina announced he was transferring, eventually settling on Washington State.

Webb’s defection leaves senior Dylan Meier and sophomore Allan Evridge – both with starting experience – to battle freshman Josh Freeman for the position.

Webb started in 10 games over the past two seasons, completing 111 of 199 passes for 1,371 yards and 12 touchdowns. Last season, he was 4-1 as a starter but gave Kansas State fans hope for this season when he led the Wildcats to a 36-28 comeback victory over Missouri in the season finale.