Coach Meyer took a few minutes to address OG Ronnie Wilson’s arrest for aggravated assault, simple battery, and use or display of a concealed weapon during the commission of a felony.
The sophomore offensive guard is indefinitely suspended from the team. It is extremely unlikely that he will return to the team any time soon.
“The punishment from the university is severe,” Meyer said. “The University is real clear. It’s non-negotiable. That’s not part of the deal.”
Meyer was asked if he has met with his players since the incident about the issue of guns.
“We had about an hour and a half meeting yesterday,” Meyer stated. “We’ve talked about guns on many, many occasions. It’s something that I’m not used to and when I see the statistics roll through my desk about 80% of NFL players, 90% maybe that carry them. It’s new to me so we have to attack it more than we have. Every year it changes, what the focus is. You try to put your finger in the hole and another one starts. Obviously we have to do a better job.”
It will be quite some time through the process before Meyer has a chance to actually deal with the situation. The law and university policy have to have their say first.
“I have no idea,” he said when asked when the matter might be resolved. “At this point, it’s completely out of my hands.”
Offensive guard is a position of strength for the Gators. Even though Wilson was listed right now as a starter at right guard, the Gators will have a few quality linemen ready to try and make a move for the spot in his absence.
Michael and Maurkice Pouncey rotated Friday along the first team in Wilson’s spot, but look for freshman Maurice Hurt to get a bigger look when he returns from a slight injury.
“Maurice Hurt has a shoulder right now and James Wilson will be coming in, so it is a place we have depth,” Meyer said.
Gator Country will keep you updated on Ronnie’s situation if there are any new developments. Stay tuned!