Grading the Gators: What are Florida’s strengths and weaknesses for the 2022 season?

Quarterbacks | B

UF’s roster shows six quarterbacks but only one is the story of the upcoming season: sophomore Anthony Richardson. He made his presence felt last season, appearing in seven games as the back-up to Emory Jones. But with Jones having transferred to Arizona State, the starting job falls to Richardson, a native of Gainesville. Richardson last season passed for 529 yards (with six touchdowns and five interceptions) while rushing for 401 yards with three TDs. He should benefit from the counsel of the new coach, Billy Napier, a former QB1 himself. During the offseason, Richardson worked to improve his image: He pleaded no contest and apologized for a speeding citation — he was clocked at 105 mph in a 60 mph zone — and distanced himself from his AR-15 nickname.

Running backs | B

Napier, who coached Louisiana for four seasons, brought depth of his own to Gainesville. Former Louisiana running back Montrell Johnson Jr. joined the Gators after rushing for 838 yards and 12 touchdowns last season and being named Sun Belt Freshman of the Year. Nay’Quan Wright returns to the Gators backfield for his third season at UF. Last year was his best as he rushed for 326 yards with a 4.3-yard average.

Receivers/tight ends | B-

Due to the transfer portal and graduations, Florida lost some of its top wide receivers. But starter Justin Shorter returns; the former five-star recruit is Florida’s leading returning receiver with 41 receptions for 550 yards last season with three TDs. Gainesville native Trent Whittemore also is back. He caught 19 passes last season for an average gain of 11.1 yards. The Gators may rely on their tight ends heavily: Keon Zipperer stood out in the 31-29 loss to Alabama with four catches for 51 yards. Tight ends Nick Elksnis and Jonathan Odom also could make an impact.

Offensive line | A

Former Ragin’ Cajun O’Cyrus Torrence followed his coach to Gainesville. He is 6-foot-5 and 347 pounds and was on the All-Sun Belt Conference first team. Among his teammates on the line will be returnee Richard Gouraige, who is 6-5 and 308. Though often regarded as underperforming, the Gators’ 2021 offensive line finished in the top 10 in the nation with only 14 sacks allowed.

Defensive line | B-

The question about the line is simple: Who’s left? The most notable loss was tackle Zachary Carter, who was drafted 95th overall this spring by the Cincinnati Bengals. The new leaders are expected to include Princely Umanmielen (17 tackles, 1.5 sacks in 2021) and Gervon Dexter, who last season had 51 total tackles with seven quarterback hits, 2.5 sacks, two fumble recoveries and a pass break-up. Former tight end Dante Zanders, Brenton Cox Jr., David Reese and Chief Borders also will play key roles.

Linebackers | B

Seniors Ventrell Miller and Amari Burney, junior Diwun Black and redshirt freshman Jeremiah Williams form a group not to be messed with. Miller and Burney have the most experience, but Black’s talent may earn him a starting spot over Burney.

Defensive backs | B+

Remember two names: Rashad Torrence II and Trey Dean III. The two safeties made a substantial impact on what otherwise was a forgettable 2021 season for this position group. The addition of freshman Kamari Wilson, the No. 3 safety in his class and a product of IMG Academy, adds depth to a group of safeties that also includes Donovan McMillon. At cornerback, Jason Marshall Jr. will be asked to replace Kaiir Elam, who was drafted 23rd overall by the Buffalo Bills. Georgia transfer Jalen Kimber also will play corner.

Special teams | C

Last season the Gators were hurt by the loss of Evan McPherson, who was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals and reached the Super Bowl. A healthy Chris Howard is likely to start for the Gators with Mississippi State transfer Jace Christmann there to back him up. Australian Jeremy Crawshaw returns to punt, and Xzavier Henderson will handle punt return duties after returning 23 last season for 162 yards. Other positions are up for grabs.

This story was originally published September 2, 2022 at 1:41 PM.