Shorter released from hospital, expected to make full recovery

By
Ethan Hughes
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UF receiver Justin Shorter was released from the hospital on Friday morning, his family announced in a statement.

“We are happy to share that Justin is doing well, is clear to head home today and is on his way to a full recovery,” the family said. “We would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of prayers, love and endless support. He is going to be fine! Special thanks to everyone on the UF athletic staff and St. Joseph’s Hospital for their professionalism, care and support they have shown Justin and our family. Wishing everyone a Happy Holiday and a blessed 2022! Go Gators!”

Shorter absorbed a wicked hit by a UCF defensive back while attempting to make a catch over the middle of the field during the closing minutes of the Gators’ Gasparilla Bowl loss to UCF on Thursday.

He laid on the field motionless for at least a few seconds and was quickly surrounded by medical personnel. Both teams gathered around him and took a knee, and several Gators were in tears.

After a 5-10-minute delay, Shorter was taken off of the field on a cart. ESPN’s sideline reporter said that he spoke with the trainers at some point, and he also appeared to move his hands.

Shorter was taken to the hospital for further evaluation, and he posted a video on Instagram overnight.

Ethan Hughes
Ethan Hughes
Ethan was born in Gainesville and has lived in the Starke, Florida, area his entire life. He played basketball for five years and knew he wanted to be a sportswriter when he was in middle school. He’s attended countless Gators athletic events since his early childhood, with baseball being his favorite sport to attend. He’s a proud 2019 graduate of the University of Florida and a 2017 graduate of Santa Fe College. He interned with the University Athletic Association’s communications department for 1 ½ years as a student and also wrote for InsideTheGators.com for two years before joining Gator Country in 2021. He is a long-suffering fan of the Jacksonville Jaguars. You can follow him on Twitter @ethanhughes97.