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Two years ago, Florida football linebacker Shemar James was the fresh new face on defense, who rode the momentum of a strong fall camp into starting his first career game as a true freshman in The Swamp against Utah in 2022.
Fast forward two years later and the 6-foot-1, 230-pound James is now one of the old hats on the Florida Gators defense, ready to take on an important role heading into the 2024 season.
“Being more of a vocal leader,” James said. “I kind of came in thinking I’m going to lead by example but sometimes guys need to hear that you mean business.”
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James is taking part in spring drills in a non-contact jersey, four months after undergoing season-ending injury to repair a dislocated kneecap. The injury occurred before UF’s 43-20 loss on Oct. 28 against rival Georgia.
James should be back for full contact by the start of fall camp.
“I’m right on schedule with the recovery process,” James said. “I’m kind of just taking it slow, trying not to rush back and have that injury happen again.”
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James was UF’s leading tackler at the time of the injury with 55, including 5.5 tackles for loss and 1 sack. In the four games without James, UF surrendered an average of 37 points and 219.5 rushing yards per game.
Overall, Florida lost five straight games to close the 2023 season, including four straight when James was on the sidelines. That, James says, has served for motivation going into the 2024 season.
“There’s definitely a different level of buy in when you walk in the weight room,” James said. “There’s guys that sit there and shirts tucked in, straps tied up. We’re…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/florida-football-lb-shemar-james-080348764.html
Author : The Gainesville Sun
Publish date : 2024-03-14 08:03:48
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