Florida loses QB Graham Mertz for remainder of season

When speaking to the media on Monday, Florida head coach Billy Napier announced that Mertz would need surgery and miss the rest of the season, per Joey Knight of the Tampa Bay Times. Napier also discussed what Mertz has meant to him and the Gators program.

“Graham has meant a lot to me, but I would also say he’s meant a lot to this program and certainly the University of Florida. And he has a sincere care for this place and all it has done for him.”

Shortly after the announcement was made, Mertz took to social media thanking the Gator fans for their support during his two years there.

Mertz collegiate career will come to an unfortunate end. After starting his career at Wisconsin, Mertz transferred to Florida where he has spent the last two seasons. While the Gators have been inconsistent and unable to find their footing under Napier, Mertz has put up commendable numbers.

During his first season with the Gators in 2023, Mertz passed for 2,903 yards, 20 TDs and only three interceptions. Until his injury derailed his 2024 season on Saturday, Mertz had 791 yards, six TDs and two interceptions, not to mention his 76.6 completion percentage. 

With Mertz’ injury, Florida will now start true freshman QB DJ Lagway. While Lagway has seen the field on several occasions throughout the 2024 season as the Gators have tried to find some rhythm on offense, he has only made one start, throwing for 456 yards against Samford in Week 2.

While Lagway has been inconsistent throwing the ball compared to Mertz, he has a lot of upside as ESPN’s top-rated quarterback and the No. 8 prospect overall from the 2024 signing class.

Lagway’s first conference start will come this Saturday as the Gators host Kentucky (7:45 p.m. ET, SEC Network). Florida will then head into a gauntlet against four ranked teams, including three current top eight teams, during a four-week stretch in November.

Currently sitting at 3-3 and only 1-2 in the SEC, that seems like a tall task for the Gators and their true freshman.