Is Aaron Gates playing today? Exploring Florida Gators DB's availability for Week 14

The Florida Gators could extend their two-game winning streak in their Week 14 game against Florida State (2-9, 1-7 ACC) on Saturday. Accordingly, fans anxiously await updates on defensive back Aaron Gates before the season finale.

Is Aaron Gates playing today?

The UF vs. FSU matchup is set to kick off at 7 p.m. ET at the Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee, Florida, on Saturday. The Gators (6-5, 4-4 SEC) have climbed to become bowl-eligible, but clouds of misfortune cast a shadow on Gators supporters as defensive back Aaron Gates has been ruled out for the season finale.

The 6-foot-1, 196-pound freshman suffered a leg injury in last week’s 24-17 upset over then-No. 9 Ole Miss. Gates was taken to the locker room early in the first quarter after the injury, and coach Billy Napier confirmed he would require surgery, though further details were undisclosed.

Gates’ absence is another blow to Florida's already depleted secondary, which is also reeling without cornerbacks Ja’Keem Jackson, Jason Marshall Jr., Devin Moore and safety Asa Turner.

The defensive backfield has been a critical component of the Gators' performance this season. Gates' ability to cover deep threats and provide physicality in key matchups will surely be missed against Florida State’s offense.

Aaron Gates' injury update and Florida’s defensive adjustments

On Wednesday, the Florida Gators coach, Billy Napier, announced that Gates will undergo surgery. On Saturday, Napier talked about his absence while highlighting the young star’s impact on the team, describing him as "one of our best players the last five or six weeks."

"He's still a young player but extremely talented. Played corner and receiver, punt returner, kick returner in high school. The big adjustment was the kicking game depth chart. He does a lot for us in the kicking game, as well," said Napier.

Gates has 27 tackles and an interception this season and has played a versatile role in Florida's defense and special teams. His absence creates a gap in both the defensive backfield and the Gators' kicking game, where his contributions were invaluable.

In Gates' absence, the Gators will turn to freshman CB Sharif Denson. Denson has recorded 32 tackles, a sack and one interception this season. Denson will join corners Dijon Johnson and Trikweze Bridges and safeties Bryce Thornton and Jordan Castell, who have shouldered heavy workloads recently.

Denson’s performance has also shown promise, making the Gators hopeful as they face an uphill battle against Florida State’s potent offense.