True freshman receiver Eugene Wilson is set to make his first career start for the Gators in week two against McNeese State, according to Florida’s week two depth chart.
“He’s had a great camp, he’s a very capable player, we saw some of that last week. Kahleil [Jackson] being banged up, we kind of shuffled the deck there. He’s deserving, and he’s going to only get better as we go forward,” Head Coach Billy Napier said on Wilson during Wednesday’s press conference.
In 23 offensive snaps in week one, Wilson collected two receptions for 24 yards and one rush for nine yards. The 5-10, 170-pound receiver also converted a two-point conversion on a pass from QB Graham Mertz.
Perhaps the most impressive play of Wilson’s Gators’ debut, a 15-yard reception down the left sideline after making a defender miss, was called back due to an offensive holding penalty on Damieon George Jr.
Wilson graded out as Florida’s top offensive player against Utah, according to Pro Football Focus.
“Still a freshman, and there will be some things that come with that, but he’s proven to be a very effective player,” Napier said on Wilson.
Wilson is looking to build on his first collegiate game against a McNeese State team that allowed 344 passing yards to Tarleton State in week one.
Expect all of the freshman receivers to see the field on Saturday night, as Andy Jean and Aidan Mizell are listed with the second team.