GAINESVILLE — Here is the second in a position-by-position preview of the UF football team leading up to SEC Media Days.
TODAY: RUNNING BACK
What to expect
No position offers head coach Billy Napier more options, a testament to his track record with running backs and position coach Jabbar Juluke’s ability to get talent. Earning carries will not easy, but Napier also spreads the wealth to keep legs fresh at a position where wear and tear is a given, and injuries are common. In 2024, three tailbacks had at least 95 carries.
With Montrell Johnson Jr., a career 3,000-yard rusher, off to the NFL, sophomore Jadan Baugh — who led UF with 133 carries for 673 yards and 7 scores — and redshirt senior Ja’Kobi Jackson (95, 507, 7) top the depth chart. Baugh’s cutting ability and wiggle at 6-foot ¾, 230 pounds are rare. The 5-foot-10 ½, 216-pound Jackson showcased his skill set with a spring-game record 198 yards and 3 touchdowns, including a 90-yard scamper.
Florida Gators running back Ja’Kobi Jackson (24) darts up the middle during the Gators 33-8 win against Tulane in the 2024 Gasparilla Bowl Dec. 20, 2024 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. (Willie J. Allen Jr./Orlando Sentinel)
Treyaun Webb pushed to get into the mix last fall until a fractured leg ended the sophomore’s season and required surgery. The sole highlight of KD Daniels’ first college season was his heady 27-yard touchdown after he scooped a fumble by quarterback DJ Lagway during the UFs 33-8 Gasparilla Bowl win against Tulane.
Webb and Daniels each will push for a role in 2024 but will have competition from incoming freshman Duke Clark, a versatile 4-star prospect from Tampa Plant with 54 touchdowns (38 rushing, 16 receiving) the past three seasons. UF also welcomes former Plantation American Heritage standout Byron Louis, a 4-star…
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Publish date : 2025-06-14 17:43:00
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