The Florida Gators had their fifth practice of fall camp on Monday. Jim McElwain took the podium following practice to update the media.
He updated on a couple of injuries, the quarterback competition and more.
Here’s what he had to say:
- Practices over the weekend were good. Players are handling the coaches pushing them hard.
- Martez Ivey missed practice today. McElwain said he “had some swelling”, but he isn’t expected to miss much time and could be back tomorrow.
- Kylan Johnson missed today with some soreness, but will be back soon.
- Khairi Clark woke up this morning with an illness and had to miss practice.
- The defensive line has been stepping up and challenging the offensive line.
- Chauncey Gardner practicing at safety right now is more for the younger guys to get more reps at cornerback.
- All quarterbacks are getting a lot of reps in practice right now. “Some of the guys handled it, and others didn’t.”
- The depth at receiver has helped the trust with the quarterbacks to let the ball go and let someone make a play.
- McElwain on the quarterbacks: “There’s a true competition, and that’s a good thing.”
- James Robinson has done a good job in practices so far, but McElwain says he has a long way to go to catch up.
- McElwain on his continued support of Robinson: “I feel it’s my responsibility to give guys a chance … I’ve never, and will never throw somebody out that has something to them and an opportunity to be successful.”
- Kadeem Telfort got more with Ivey out today and Fred Johnson moved around between guard and tackle.
- McElwain feels good about the depth at running back this season.
- JuJuan Seider brings great energy to the running backs.
- Freddie Swain attacked his rehab over the offseason and McElwain said he looks like a new guy.
- McElwain has stressed working on explosive plays for the offense in practice so far.