Billy Napier says Justin Shorter is questionable for South Carolina game

Last week, Florida receiver Justin Shorter missed the Gators’ win over Texas A&M as he dealt with a knee injury. He was questionable on the mid-week injury report leading up to that game, and that was again the case this week as Florida prepares to take on South Carolina.

Billy Napier provided an update on Shorter’s status during his Wednesday press conference, saying he’s been on a “pitch count” during practice. That said, Napier and the staff are keeping a close eye on their leading receiver heading into Saturday’s matchup with the Gamecocks.

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“[Shorter has] been modified in practice,” Napier said. “He’s been able to do some things. We’ve kind of got him on a pitch count. He’s still questionable at this point in time. We’ll see where he’s at tomorrow. But he has done work. He worked yesterday, he worked today. We’re just keeping a close eye on him there and trying to control the volume.”

Shorter has 21 receptions for 471 yards and two touchdowns this year to help lead the Florida offense. His absence didn’t make too much of an impact last week against Texas A&M as the Gators knocked off the Aggies 41-24 at Kyle Field. Still, the goal is to get him back on the field as Florida closes in on bowl eligibility in Napier’s first year at the helm.

Shorter’s injury wasn’t the only one Napier updated Wednesday. Fellow receiver Ja’Quavion Fraziers suffered a “pretty significant” shoulder injury and has been ruled out for Saturday’s game. Additionally, tight end Keon Zipperer has also been ruled out as he works his way back from a knee injury. He also missed last week against Texas A&M, but Napier said the injury isn’t considered long-term.

Florida and South Carolina kick off Saturday at 5 p.m. ET on the SEC Network.