The Florida Gators have had one of their worst starts under head coach Billy Napier. In Week 1, Florida was throttled by the Miami Hurricanes, and in Week 3, it suffered another loss at the hands of the Texas A&M Aggies. Napier has a 12-16 record at Florida.
Even program legends like former Florida running Emmitt Smith are weighing in on Napier’s future. Smith played for Florida from 1987-89. Smith is currently the program’s second-all-time leading rusher with 3,928 career rushing yards.
Smith appeared on a recent episode of “Up and Adams” with Kay Adams to discuss Napier’s future. The former Florida running back believed the 2024 season could be the last with Napier as head coach.
Before asking Smith about Napier, Adams mentioned how the Florida head coach felt confident about a guaranteed fourth season in Gainesville.
Florida Gators head coach Billy Napier looks on against the Samford Bulldogs during the second half. Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images
Florida Gators head coach Billy Napier looks on against the Samford Bulldogs during the second half. Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images © Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images
“…We haven’t really shown that we have the ability to go out and compete at the level we need to,” Smith said. “So, it’s gonna be very tough to watch this season. If coach is right that he has nothing to worry about, that he can see a fourth year, kudos to him. But I’m not seeing it happen. I don’t see it happening.
Napier revealed that the Gators will start Graham Mertz at quarterback in Week 4 against the Mississippi State Bulldogs. However, DJ Lagway will be involved in both halves. Lagway was a former five-star quarterback in the 2024 class, per the On3 Industry Rankings.
The Gators and Bulldogs kick off on ESPN on Sept. 21 at noon ET.