Graham Mertz injury: Huge blow for Billy Napier after Florida QB hobbles to sideline

Graham Mertz has left Florida’s game against Tennessee on Saturday at the Neyland Stadium in Knoxville with an apparent leg injury. The quarterback appeared to injure himself after completing a touchdown pass to tight end Arlis Broadingham midway through the third quarter.

Following the play, Mertz immediately dropped to the turf, clutching his left leg, even though there was no contact during the play. He limped off the field in visible frustration, slamming his helmet into the ground before heading into the medical tent on Florida's sideline.

Graham Mertz has been the Gators' starting quarterback since 2023 and has proven to be one of the most efficient players in the role. Before leaving the game with injury, he completed 11 of 15 passes for 125 yards and a touchdown, placing his team in contention for a win.

Graham Mertz's injury a huge blow for struggling Florida

Considering Grham Mertz’s frustration in the injury tent, there's little chance that he will be able to return to the ongoing game against Tennessee. There’s no confirmation of the severity of the injury at the moment with fans and media waiting patiently for an update.

Florida has experienced significant struggles so far this season, entering the game against Tennessee at just 3-2. This has placed Billy Napier's job in Gainesville under significant threat. However, not having the quarterback for an extended period massively reduces the chance of redemption for the Gators this season.

Following Mertz’s exit from the game, true freshman DJ Lagway took over but struggled immediately, throwing an interception on his first series after Mertz's injury. While Lagway has shown flashes of promise throughout the season, turnovers have been a recurring issue.

This is the second time this season that Graham Mertz has left a game injured. The quarterback left the season opener against Miami with an injury, giving fans a chance to see DJ Lagway in action for the first time.

Lagway stepped in for Mertz during Week 2's matchup against Samford, but Mertz quickly regained his starting position for the following game against Texas A&M in Week 3.

Since his return, Mertz has consistently been the starting quarterback, though the Gators have implemented a strategic rotation. This has given Lagway key opportunities, including playing the opening series of the second half in recent games.

An update on Graham Mertz's situation is expected from Billy Napier in his postgame press conference in Knoxville. While there's confidence in Lagway in Gainesville, having Mertz on the offense is the best-case scenario for the Gators.