Florida quarterback Graham Mertz is expected to miss the remainder of the season with a knee injury he suffered in week seven’s loss to Tennessee, Gator Country has confirmed.
“I want to go ahead and declare Graham Mertz has torn his ACL and he’ll be done for the season,” head coach Billy Napier confirmed on Monday afternoon. “He’ll have surgery next week.”
Mertz went down with a non-contact injury after a 13-yard touchdown pass to Arlis Boardingham in the third quarter to give Florida a 10-0 lead.
In five games played in the 2024 season, Mertz completed 72 of 94 passes (76.6%) for 791 yards, six touchdowns, and two interceptions.
Graham Mertz released a statement to Gator Nation on Monday.
“Gator Nation, thank you for two incredible years in Gainesville. Unfortunately, I suffered a torn ACL against Tennessee and will miss the remainder of the season. During my recovery, I will remain a part of the program and do whatever I can in meeting rooms and from the sideline to help my teammates win. I want to thank everyone for the outpouring of support during this time,” Mertz wrote on social media.
The Gators will move forward with true freshman quarterback DJ Lagway for the remainder of the 2024 season, who has played in all six games for Florida.
“I think we’re super prepared,” senior receiver Chimere Dike said on the offense without Mertz. “You know, my prayers go to Graham. That’s my guy, and I’m hoping he’s going to be alright. But, you know, DJ is obviously a really capable player, and I know the guys believe in him and his work ethic, so I don’t think it should be an issue if that’s what’s needed.”