Billy Napier calls Graham Mertz a 'big piece' for Florida moving forward

Graham Mertz’s first season in Gainesville was a success based on what he was able to do as Florida’s starting quarterback. However, with him set to return next fall, he could be even more important for what the Gators do next season than he was this season.

Billy Napier spoke about Mertz’s value for their program in 2024 during an appearance on the SEC Network on Wednesday. Quality numbers aside, he noted how Mertz’s leadership shined in their building over the course of the year. That status should only mean that much more next season during what will be a very difficult slate for Florida.

“Graham’s a big piece to the puzzle, not only the production on the field but also just the leadership element,” said Napier. “He spent last spring competing for the job. Probably a little bit more reserved in that regard but this guy proved himself on the field as a competitor.”

“(He) really set a standard for how to work. Very professional approach, extremely smart. I think he won over our team,” Napier said. “For him to be back is huge going into what we all know is a tough league.”

Mertz came to The Swamp this past offseason after transferring following four seasons at Wisconsin.

In his 11 games this season, Mertz threw for nearly 3,000 yards along with 20 touchdowns. He has highly efficient in the Gator offense with a 72.9% completion rate, which finished fifth in the nation, and only three interceptions. He was unable to add to those numbers and finish the year, though, after he broke his collarbone against Missouri and, therefore, missed the season finale against Florida State.

Florida is going to need someone with experience in order to manage their gauntlet of a schedule next season. That’s what makes Mertz such a luxury as a sixth-year quarterback that has earned the approval of both his teammates and his head coach.

“Graham Mertz? There’s no question he’ll be the leader and at the forefront of what we want to do next year,” said Napier.

Mertz on returning to Florida: ‘I care about this place and I want to win here’

On a recent episode of ‘Andy Staples On3’, Staples’ guest was Florida QB Graham Mertz.

In that appearance, he discussed several things, including his decision to remain in Gainesville for one more year. He also revealed when he knew he that would return to the program for next season.

“Kind of after our season ended. I mean, for me, it ended after the Mizzou game so I had a little more time to think about it,” said Mertz. “It took a few weeks with my family, talked to people around me.”

“I mean you get to that point where you play the sport and your goal is go to the NFL. And, for me, it’s you have that option right in front of you,” Mertz explained. “But I kept thinking back to my time here this past year and how blessed I’ve been with the people around me. I put in my post the whole ‘unfinished business’ thing and that’s the truth. I care about this place and I want to win here.”