Florida football starting quarterback Graham Mertz has suffered a season-ending torn ACL and is set to have surgery next week, head coach Billy Napier announced during Monday’s press conference.
“Graham Mertz has torn his ACL and he will be done for the season,” Napier said. “He’ll have surgery next week, and it’s only right for me to say how much I appreciate and (I’m) thankful for Graham (Mertz) in terms of all that he has brought to the table.
“To our team, not only his production on the field but also just his impact on the team as a whole, his leadership, the work ethic, the example, the self-discipline.”
Mertz got hurt during the third quarter of last week’s game against the Tennessee Volunteers after throwing a 13-yard touchdown pass to tight end Arlis Boardingham. Mertz threw the pass and all of a sudden, went down to the ground despite no one making contact with him.
He limped off the field and did not return to the game.
With Mertz out for the season, freshman quarterback DJ Lagway will have total control of the Gators’ offense from here on out.
Napier mentioned that Lagway will be much more prepared now that he’s the starter.
“I think there’s some excitement in terms of DJ (Lagway) and what he’s been able to accomplish thus far,” Napier said. “And I think he’ll be much more prepared having started a game, but also having played in each game this season.”
Napier went on to say, “DJ (Lagway) has this innate ability to kind of rise to the occasion and step up in big moments, and I’m confident that he’ll do that in this situation.”
Mertz announced his injury on Instagram and will still be doing whatever he can to contribute to the team.
“During my recovery, I will remain a part of the program and do whatever I can in meeting rooms and from the sideline to help my teammates win,” Mertz wrote. “I want to thank everyone for the outpouring of support at this time.”
https://www.instagram.com/p/DBHGXZ8xXO8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Napier explained how much Mertz has meant to the Florida football program.
“Graham’s (Mertz) meant a lot to me, but I would also say he’s meant a lot to this program, and certainly the University of Florida,” Napier said.
Coming up for the Gators
The Gators host the Kentucky Wildcats inside Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 19. Kickoff is set for 7:45 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on the SEC Network.
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