Billy Napier reacts to offensive lineman Josh Braun's decision to hit the transfer portal

Billy Napier reacted to the news that Florida offensive lineman Josh Braun is entering the transfer portal on Wednesday, as the revelation may have come as a surprise to some.

Originally, On3’s Gators Online first reported the news after hearing from the player’s father earlier in the day and hinted at an announcement. Braun then confirmed the news with a lengthy statement, adding that he’s leaving the team to focus on finishing his degree in the meantime, as well.

During the SEC Coaches Teleconference, the Florida coach stated that while it’s a “tough situation” for Braun and the Gators, they’re committed to helping him more to the next chapter of his career.

“Tough situation for Josh,” began Napier. “I think anytime, a lot of things going on there relative to big picture for him personally, with his wife, his degree, certainly his role on the team. So Josh has been a class act. Extremely bright, a guy that is close to getting his degree here. Wants more of a role, and certainly interesting decision, relative to being right in the middle of the season.

“But you know, we’ve got nothing but respect for Josh, and certainly will help him going forward in any way possible.”

Alas, Braun’s time on the field has been scarce since Napier took over, appearing in just two games. He saw time on the offensive line against Eastern Washington and on special teams against Missouri.

Moreover, Braun made sure to apologize to his teammates and shed some light on the situation during his aforementioned statement.

“I would like to begin by thanking Gator Nation for their tremendous support throughout the three seasons that I have spent as a Florida Gator,” wrote Braun. “There are no better fans in the country, nor a better gameday atmosphere than The Swamp. I would also like to thank Coach Mullen and Coach Hevesy for giving me the opportunity to don the Orange and Blue, as well as Coach Napier and Coach Sale for furthering my development. After careful consideration with my wife and family, I have decided to enter the transfer portal on December 5. I intend to do so as a graduate of the University of Florida. In order to do so, I am leaving the team as the class I need to graduate conflicts heavily with football.

“I apologize to my teammates for the timing of this announcement and departure, but I must do what is in the best interests of myself and my family. I have cherished every second that I have been a Gator, and I look forward to the next chapter of my life.”

More on Josh Braun, Florida Gators

Continuing, the 6-foot-6, 351-pound Braun started in seven of 13 games during the 2021 season, having appeared at left and right guard. He appeared in 11 games as a backup during his true freshman season.

A former Georgia commit, Braun committed to the Gators shortly after Sam Pittman left Athens to become the head coach at the University of Arkansas.

According to the On3 Consensus, Braun ranked as the No. 27 offensive tackle and No. 262 player overall during the 2020 cycle. Auburn, Florida State, Miami, South Carolina and Michigan are some additional schools that offered Braun out of high school.

On3’s James Fletcher III contributed to this article.