Third-string quarterback Modster leaving UCLA

Devon Modster, who went from a candidate to be UCLA’s starting quarterback to a third-stringer, announced Friday that he was transferring.

“Excited for a new chapter!” Modster wrote on Twitter while thanking former Bruins coach Jim Mora and his successor, Chip Kelly.

“I’d like to thank Coach Kelly and the strength coaches for continuing to allow me to continue to play the game I love, BUT I’ve decided to leave UCLA and pursue other opportunities.”

The redshirt sophomore’s exit comes only a few days before the start of fall classes next week.

Modster lost a three-way battle with graduate transfer Wilton Speight and freshman Dorian ThompsonRobinson to become the team’s starter in training camp. Speight won the job but was replaced by Thompson-Robinson in the season opener against Cincinnati after suffering a back injury.

Thompson-Robinson played well in his first start against Oklahoma before struggling in a 38-14 loss to Fresno State. Kelly never turned to Modster despite his performing admirably last season while Josh Rosen was sidelined with concussions.

Modster played only after Thompson-Robinson was forced to the sideline for one play by rule when his helmet came off against Oklahoma. Modster handed the ball off.

Speight has increased his activity in practices this week, prompting speculation that he could be available to return Friday when UCLA (0-3) faces Colorado (0-3) in Boulder. . Redshirt sophomore Matt Lynch, redshirt freshman Austin Burton and freshman walk-on Josiah Norwood are the remaining UCLA backups.