The Gators are still working to finalize a few roster spots ahead of the 2024 season. While some defensive positions seem set for Florida Football, others remain uncertain as they approach the season opener against Miami.
Based on training camp reports and intuition, here’s a prediction of who coach Billy Napier might start on defense against Miami on August 31.
**Key Players:**
– **LJ McCray:** A five-star prospect likely to see early action.
– **George Gumbs:** A transfer portal project making waves in camp.
### Defensive Tackle:
**Starters:**
– **Cam Jackson**
– **Caleb Banks**
**Backups:**
– **Joey Slackman** (recovering from injury)
– **Kelby Collins**
– **Desmond Watson**
Slackman, despite high praise, has mainly worked with the second team, but the starting role might be more of a formality given the rotation with Jackson and Banks.
### Linebackers:
**Starters:**
– **Shemar James**
– **Pup Howard**
**Backups:**
– **Derek Wingo**
– **Aaron Chiles**
– **Myles Graham**
This linebacker group shows promise compared to last year. While James is a proven talent, Howard is expected to complement him well. Wingo brings experience, while Chiles and Graham have potential, though one might redshirt if James and Howard stay healthy.
### Cornerbacks:
**Starters:**
– **Jason Marshall**
– **Devin Moore**
– **Sharif Denson**
**Backups:**
– **Ja’Keem Jackson**
– **Aaron Gates**
– **Dijon Johnson**
These positions have been clear since January. Marshall is aiming for a strong season, while Moore and Denson are stepping up. Moore’s recent absence could lead to more playing time for Jackson. The backups are promising but lack depth compared to other groups.
**Note:** The situation with Cormani McClain, a former five-star prospect, remains uncertain due to an eye injury.
### Safeties:
**Starters:**
– **Jordan Castell**
– **Asa Turner**
**Backups:**
– **Trikweze Bridges**
– **DJ Douglas**
– **Bryce Thornton**
Castell is expected to start, while Turner, a transfer from Washington, is the likely partner despite not being prominent in camp discussions. Bridges and Douglas bring experience and will be relied upon early, but Thornton could emerge as a key player later in the season, though he’s currently limited in practice.
This roster prediction highlights the mix of solidified positions and those still in flux as the Gators prepare for their season opener.