Gators fans got some good news on Thursday morning, as it appears an apparent foot injury to starting “BUCK” linebacker Brenton Cox Jr. shouldn’t be serious enough to keep him sidelined for part of the season, according to a report from Sports Illustrated-AllGators’ Zach Goodall.
The story was first reported on Wednesday night by the Georgia Bulldogs SB Nation site “Dawg Sports.” The initial report, which cited multiple sources “close to and within” the UF program, indicated that Cox suffered a foot injury in a scooter accident and would miss fall camp and a substantial portion of the 2021 season.
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However, Goodall’s report contradicts both of these assertions. According to his source, Cox played through a Jones fracture in his left foot last season, an injury which was discovered this offseason.
Cox reportedly had a screw placed in his foot in early June and was seen in a walking boot at Florida’s recruiting camps last month. According to Goodall, the team expects Cox to be ready for Week 1 against Florida Atlantic, barring further setbacks, though it remains unclear whether he’ll be available for the start of fall camp.
A transfer from Georgia, Cox started all 12 games for the Gators in 2020. He totaled 41 tackles, four sacks and a team-high 18 quarterback hurries. He also finished tied for first on the team with 9.5 tackles for loss.
Though he wasn’t quite as productive during his first season in the Orange and Blue as fans may have hoped, he’s expected to play a major role in 2021. His health will be critical for the success of Florida’s defense next season.
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