Knijeah Harris was one of four offensive linemen that Billy Napier brought in through the high school ranks. The IMG product was considered one of the best run blocking linemen in the 2023 class.
After enrolling into the University of Florida in early January, the true freshman has found himself splitting first team reps at left-guard following Micah Mazzccua’s injury.
“We’ve got a couple guys that have stepped up since Mazzccua has been out,” offensive line coach Darnell Stapleton said. “The freshman has gotten some work in Knijeah (Harris). Christian Williams has gotten reps there.”
Harris has impressed the coaching staff and has earned the opportunity for early playing time this spring.
“Knijeah has been doing a really good job,” Stapleton said. “The game has slowed down for him, which is the biggest thing for our high school guy coming to the college ranks, especially SEC to have the game slow down for them mentally and physically. And we’re excited about it. He’s excited to get the opportunity to show that he belongs and we’re just gonna keep giving them more, keep pushing him. It’s about creating competition in that room.”
The 6-3, 322-pound lineman has a ton of football under his belt, starting all four years in high school including three years at the IMG Academy.
Stapleton credits IMG for his development and ability to play multiple positions.
“He can position flex,” Stapleton said. “He played center at IMG and did a really good job there. He moved out to guard at IMG, did really well there. Again, it’ll help him in his career to be able to do both.”
Harris’ teammate, Richie Leonard, believes that the freshman has a bright future in Gainesville.
“Knijeah came in as a professional,” junior offensive lineman Richie Leonard said. “Like I was talking about myself my freshman year I wasn’t ready to play mentally. Knijeah’s way ahead of where I was mentally my freshman year. So I think if he just keeps working hard, he’s gonna be a heck of a football player for us.”
There’s obviously a ton of factors that could change things between now and the start of the 2023 season.
We aren’t exactly sure on the timetable for Micah Mazzccua’s return, but it will likely directly affect how much playing time Harris receives.
Christian Williams is another offensive lineman that has impressed the staff.
“He’s grown as well,” Stapleton said. “Christian has bounced around from guard to center. He’s getting better day in and day out. And again, we’re relying on these guys to come in here and compete.”
Alabama transfer Dameion George took reps at guard in Saturday’s spring practice. There’s a chance the staff decides to move the tackle inside to allow the Gators’ best five offensive linemen to see the field.
Jalen Farmer is another guy that the staff will turn to this fall.
Many factors need to shake out before we determine how much true freshman Knijeah Harris will see the field in 2023, but the staff is preparing Harris to make an immediate impact for the Florida Gators.