Florida QB Graham Mertz shares snippets from road to recovery following season-ending ACL injury

Graham Mertz suffered an ACL tear in Florida’s Week 7 game against Tennessee, ruling him out of action for the team ever since. The quarterback has held the starting role for the Gators since the 2023 season following his transfer to Gainesville from Wisconsin.

After making a throw, Mertz appeared to land awkwardly on his leg while backing up on the turf. Trainers quickly attended to him as he limped off the field and didn’t make a return to the game. An update from coach Billy Napier revealed he will require surgery and will be out for an extended period.

“Graham Mertz has torn his ACL and he will be done for the season,” Napier said. “He’ll have surgery next week, and I think it’s only right for me to say how much I appreciate and am thankful for Graham, in terms of all that he has brought to the table to our team.

On Wednesday, Mertz gave an update on his route to recovery. In an Instagram story posted on his personal account, the quarterback was seen engaging in workouts at the Florida gym. This signifies he could reach full fitness earlier than anticipated.

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Will Graham Mertz be available for the Florida State game?

While Graham Mertz has taken some steps forward in his recovery, the quarterback won’t suited for the rivalry game against Florida State. He has been ruled out of the season, which means he’s played his last game for Florida as he is out of eligibility.

“Gator Nation, thank you for two incredible years in Gainesville,” Mertz wrote on social media in October. “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.”

The quarterback made it known that he would serve as a mentor to true freshman DJ Lagway. This showcased his commitment to the success of the program.

“I’m here in any way, shape or form for DJ, for this quarterback room,” Mertz said. “I told him, ‘Whatever you need. If it’s someone to talk to about life, if it’s someone to talk to about what I’m seeing on the field.’ I’m not going to overstep, but I’m going to do everything I can to help.”

In his two-year tenure in Gainesville, Graham Mertz appeared in 16 games, throwing for 3,694 yards and 26 touchdowns. He is working to be fit for the Senior Bowl and NFL Combine next year ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft.