Arizona State's depth chart at quarterback is reportedly down to three after reports that Dillon Sterling-Cole intends to put his name in the transfer portal.

The junior from Houston was one of four candidates for the starting job, which was eventually won by true freshman Jayden Daniels, who has attempted every pass this season.

Daniels and Sterling-Cole, previously the backup to Manny Wilkins, emerged as the two top candidates in February's spring drills but Daniels secured the spot early in the fall with Sterling-Cole slowed by a shoulder injury sustained the week the Sun Devils were training at Camp Tontozona.

Coach Herm Edwards announced Daniels as the starter and Joey Yellen, another true freshman, as the backup early in August.

The other candidate for that job was a third true freshman in Oregon native Ethan Long, the first eliminated from the four-way battle for the job. During the fall portion of practice, Long worked at slot as well as on special teams because of his athleticism and versatility. He has played in all games in various spots, including lining up to receive the snap in the "Sparky" packages.

Yellen is the only one of the four that has not played in a game this season.

Sterling-Cole had just one career start for ASU, which came in 2016 as a true freshman when the team had a rash of injuries at the position including then-starter Wilkins and his top backups, Brady White and Bryce Perkins.

After redshirting in 2017, Sterling-Cole was a backup to Wilkins in 2018 and then lost 25 pounds in preparation for his chance this season.

A week after losing the job, Sterling-Cole said he intended to stick it out. He has been a regular at practice and been used to run the scout team on occasions. He also had been used in some punt block team packages and has been praised by the coaches for his attitude and willingness to contribute in any way possible.

"It's just adjusting and taking a role for what it's worth (on special team). The team is doing great and in any way possible I can help, I'm willing to do it," Sterling-Cole said earlier this month.

"Ultimately I've always been labeled as an athlete, but most importantly I play quarterback. That's what I feel like my job title is at the end of the day. When it comes down to it, I just want to help as best as possible."

Sterling-Cole, who is on track to graduate in May, has always been complimentary of Daniels.

"He (Daniels) reminds me of a younger Manny. He's going to be special. He's really, really good. He manages the game very well. He's very mature. When I was his age, when I played as a freshman, I can't say I was like that," Sterling-Cole added.

Staff writer Jeff Metcalfe contributed to this report.

Reach the reporter at Michelle.Gardner@Gannett.com or 602 444-4783. Follow her on Twitter @MGardnerSports.

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