Redshirt sophomore cornerback Trenton Coles, expected to play a key role on defense this year, will transfer.

“I appreciate what he’s done,” head coach Paul Chryst said. “He wants a fresh start, and we’re going to do everything we can to help him get to a good place.”

The news came after practice on Wednesday during which Coles wasn’t present. Chryst did not add the reason for his sudden departure.

Coles played in 11 of Pitt’s 13 games last season, making nine tackles—eight solo and one assisted, — and recovering a fumble.

Coming into training camp, the Clairton, Pa., native was expected to start, along with fellow cornerback redshirt junior Lafayette Pitts, after the season-long suspension of Titus Howard on Aug. 1 opened up a spot. But in the last week or so, other players such as redshirt sophomore Reggie Mitchell appeared to overtake him on the depth chart.    

At the time of publication, Coles was still listed on the team’s official online roster.

The team opens its season on Aug. 30 at home against the University of Delaware.