The Florida Gators football team held its second spring practice session on Saturday morning, marking another step in their preparation for the upcoming season. Players participated in a non-contact jersey setup, wearing only helmets and Guardian caps as per NCAA regulations. The session took place at UF’s indoor facility due to inclement weather, with media allowed to observe approximately 13 minutes of skill development drills. Key players like defensive lineman Jamari Lyons and wide receiver Kahleil Jackson were present, albeit in non-contact jerseys, while several others, including Aidan Mizell and Jameer Grimsley, were absent or limited. Coach Billy Napier and his staff continued to emphasize technique and recovery progress, setting the tone for the remainder of the camp.
One of the most encouraging developments was the presence of Jamari Lyons, who has been recovering from a severe ankle injury sustained during fall camp. Wearing a black non-contact jersey, Lyons participated in individual bag drills and showed impressive athleticism, suggesting significant progress in his rehabilitation. Coach Napier acknowledged that Lyons is making strides but remains cautious about his full return. “Jamari Lyons has made considerable progress, but he is still working on lower leg strength,” Napier noted. Lyons’ participation in drills without apparent hindrance was a promising sign for the Gators.
Another player drawing attention was Stephon Shivers, the 399-pound defensive lineman. Despite being sidelined by a lower-back injury, Shivers demonstrated remarkable mobility during individual drills. Defensive line coach Gerald Chatman took time to work closely with Shivers, focusing on proper technique. Tyler Miles, UF’s director of strength and conditioning, praised Shivers' athleticism, stating, “He can move well for his size, and once he gets comfortable, his performance will improve significantly.” This hands-on approach underscores the coaching staff's commitment to nurturing talent even under challenging conditions.
The absence of wide receiver Aidan Mizell was notable. Instead of participating in on-field drills, Mizell was observed working out in the weight room alongside other players with modified availability. This decision likely reflects a strategic focus on maintaining fitness levels while managing injuries. Similarly, veteran wide receiver Kahleil Jackson was seen participating in individual drills but did not engage in routes on air, indicating a cautious approach to his recovery from an undisclosed injury.
A promising sign emerged for cornerback Jameer Grimsley, who was no longer using crutches after undergoing ACL revision surgery. Although still in the early stages of recovery, Grimsley managed to lightly jog during parts of the session. This observation suggests that he is progressing well and could potentially return to action sooner than expected. Meanwhile, quarterback DJ Lagway remained limited, focusing on hand-off drills rather than throwing passes. His importance to the team cannot be overstated, and his gradual integration into practices is being carefully monitored.
The presence of former UF quarterback Austin Appleby added an intriguing element to the session. Appleby, who recently worked as a wide receivers coach at the University of Alabama Birmingham, was spotted observing practice with a clipboard. Speculation is rife that he may join the Gators in a coaching capacity, following in the footsteps of other alumni like David Reese II, Brandon Spikes, and Mike Peterson. Former teammates Teez Tabor and Quincy Wilson were also observed watching the practice, reinforcing the strong connections within the program.
As the Gators continue their spring camp, the focus remains on refining techniques, supporting player recoveries, and preparing for the challenges ahead. The team's dedication to these objectives, coupled with the promising signs of progress, sets a positive tone for the upcoming season. The coaching staff's balanced approach to training and rehabilitation ensures that players are ready to perform at their best when it counts.