Gator Nation has already learned the fate of a few 2024 NFL draft candidates on the team.
Ricky Pearsall is going pro, Graham Mertz is running it back and Princely Umanmielen surprised everyone by announcing his return to college football and entering the transfer portal. But several announcements have yet to be made. Gators Online says that Florida could be losing a pair of defensive backs and an offensive lineman to the draft.
Cornerback Jason Marshall Jr. started the season as a potential first-rounder. While he never lived up to those expectations, he could still go high in the draft. Some mocks have him going ahead of Pearsall. The College Advisory Committee could influence his decision if Marshall’s draft grade isn’t up to his liking.
Defensive back Jaydon Hill won’t have to think too hard about his decision. He walked on Senior Night and should enter the draft, per GO.
Offensive lineman Micah Mazzccua started at right guard for Florida in 11 of 12 games and could very well be turning pro this spring. He has one more year of eligibility remaining, but Mazzccua wants to get his pro career started.
Finally, there’s running back Montrell Johnson Jr., who has spent all three years of his college football career as Billy Napier’s top running back. He could turn pro, but Trevor Etienne’s exit opens the door for him to have a big senior year should he return.
Treyaun Webb will be a year older and more involved, but a redshirt in 2023 means he still has plenty of time to see starting reps. That leaves Johnson with a decision to make, and Gators Online says he is leaning toward a return.
There would be a lot of pressure to eclipse 1,000 yards and no Etienne to lean on when things get tough, but Johnson might be up for the challenge. Florida should put together a nice NIL offer in hopes of keeping him in Gainesville for one more year.
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