Lamson returned as a full-practice participant after almost a year of rehabilitation, but starter Garrett Shrader had led the Orange to their first bowl game in four seasons. Lamson jousted with Del Rio-Wilson for backup consideration in spring practice, but the incumbent kept the favor of Syracuse’s coaching staff.
As a result, Lamson faced a tough decision. Sit another year on the sidelines or find a place where he could compete for a starting job? After some deliberation, he chose the transfer portal.
If the writer meant Shrader (the incumbent starter) then he poorly worded the sentence. Either way though, the article says Lamson transferred because he didn't want to sit again. But if you're the #2 QB as a redshirt soph that's an incredibly dumb move because chances are you're going to play; and you're not even transferring to a situation where you're the #1. Conclusion, he transferred because he was the #3.