Graham Mertz injury update: Billy Napier confirms torn ACL for Florida QB

Florida quarterback Graham Mertz has torn his ACL and will be out for the remainder of the 2024 campaign. On Monday, Florida head coach Billy Napier provided further details on Mertz’s injury.

“Graham Mertz has torn his ACL and he will be done for the season,” Napier said. “He’ll have surgery next week, and I think it’s only right for me to say how much I appreciate and am thankful for Graham, in terms of all that he has brought to the table to our team. Not only his production on the field but also just his impact on the team as a whole, his leadership, the work ethic, the example, the self discipline.

“It’s been awesome to be a part of his growth and development and to see him get to the place where he’s been here lately. Graham’s meant a lot to to me, but I would also say he’s meant a lot to this program, and certainly the University of Florida. He has a sincere care for this place and all that it’s done for him.”

Mertz suffered the injury in the third quarter of Florida’s 23-17 loss to Tennessee on Saturday. Before leaving the game, Mertz completed 11-of-his-15 pass attempts for 125 yards and a touchdown without throwing an interception.

Mertz will finish the 2024 campaign with 791 passing yards and six touchdowns while only throwing two interceptions. Mertz split snaps with true freshman DJ Lagway for a portion of the season but eventually secured his spot as Florida’s QB1.

Now, Lagway will be forced to take over the Gators’ offense. In Florida’s loss against the Volunteers, Lagway completed 9-of-17 passes for 98 yards and a TD but also threw an interception. After Napier confirmed reports of Mertz’s injury, the senior QB released a statement on social media.

“Gator Nation, thank you for two incredible years in Gainesville,” Mertz wrote. “Unfortunately, I suffered a torn ACL against Tennessee and will miss the remainder of the season.

“During my recovery, I will remain a part of the program and do whatever I can in meeting rooms and from the sideline to help my teammates win. I want to thank everyone for the outpouring of support during this time.”