First-year head coach Barry Odom named Ryan Browne as Purdue’s starting quarterback to open the Boilermakers’ 2025 campaign.

Odom announced his decision after practice Thursday.

The redshirt sophomore briefly left Purdue for North Carolina and went through spring practice with Bill Belichick and the Tar Heels because of the Boilermakers’ coaching change.

Browne decided to transfer back to Purdue after spring practice and rejoined Odom’s squad.

Browne started two games and appeared in eight total games last season.

In those eight games last season — with starts against Illinois and Oregon — Browne threw for 532 total yards and four touchdowns and two interceptions. He was also a threat on the ground, racking up 155 rushing yards. He appeared in just one game as a true freshman.

Arkansas transfer Malachi Singleton will be relegated to the backup role. Singleton, a sophomore, appeared in five games for the Razorbacks last year.

Purdue will kick off its season against Ball State on Aug. 30.