Florida released its Week 2 depth chart ahead of its matchup with FCS Samford on Saturday, and there are several notable shakeups to go over.
The big one is [autotag]DJ Lagway[/autotag] being listed as the starting quarterback, but most diehard fans expected that announcement with [autotag]Graham Mertz[/autotag] in concussion protocol.
It will be the first start of many for Lagway in a Gators uniform, but it comes much earlier than expected. Fortunately, the former five-star recruit won’t be going up against an elite Division I defense.
Most of Lagway’s weapons on offense will remain the same. Eugene “Tre” Wilson III, Elijhah Badger and Chimere Dike are all healthy, and Montrell Jonson Jr. leads a full running backs room. Tight ends Arlis Boardingham and Hayden Hansen are also set to start.
There are a few changes on the offensive line, however. Brandon Crenshaw-Dickson has moved into the top spot at right tackle, but Kamryn Waites is still listed as an “OR” option. Waites is also listed as an “OR” option at right guard behind Damieon George Jr. since he performed better as a run blocker in Week 1.
Left guard Knijeah Harris also has some competition behind him. Bryce Lovett, who was listed as a right guard last week, is the “OR” option behind Harris entering week two.
Left tackle Austin Barber and center Jake Slaughter are the two constants up front for Florida. The Gators will lean on the two program veterans all season long.
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Florida Gators Week 2 depth chart — Defense
Florida’s defense got banged up against Miami, and there are several changes on the depth chart to reflect those injuries.
Defensive end Joey Slackman is no longer listed as the “OR” option behind Caleb Banks, and Sharif Denson is missing at the STAR position. Aaron Gates will be Florida’s starting nickelback with Alfonzo Allen Jr. as his “OR” option.
Florida’s No. 2 cornerback Devin Moore is the biggest missing piece from this week’s depth chart, though. Napier said he was dealing with an AC joint issue earlier in the week, and Ja’Keem Jackson has officially been upgraded to a starter as a result.
Finally, Washington transfer and veteran safety Asa Turner is absent form the depth chart after going down with a lower-body injury against Miami. Tulane transfer DJ Douglas will step up as Florida’s starting strong safety against Samford.
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