Napier says potential starter ‘yet to be completely cleared’ after surgery
NASHVILLE — One of the biggest question marks for Florida heading into its trip to SEC Media Days was the health of Micah Mazzccua. He was the highest-ranked transfer signee in UF’s 2023 class.
Mazzccua was working as the Gators’ left guard in spring ball before undergoing shoulder surgery, which sidelined him for the rest of camp.
Florida coach Billy Napier provided an update on Mazzccua’s status Wednesday at SEC Media Days.
“Micah is the one player who’s yet to be completely cleared,” he said. “He’s doing great. He’s on schedule. Certainly he’ll get reps and he’ll have his opportunity to compete. I think before his injury he showed that he’s very capable. There will be some things that come with missing time. Overall, he’s on schedule to be ready to go.”
Mazzccua started 10 games last season at left guard for Baylor, allowing only one sack in 367 pass protection snaps. He was ranked No. 2 offensive guard in the Big 12 by Pro Football Focus.
Mazzccua is expected to return to action during fall training camp in August, but his status for the season opener at Utah will be determined next month.
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Napier also provided updates Wednesday on Florida offensive linemen Kamryn Waites and Jalen Farmer. Waites, who made his first career start at right guard in the bowl game, is working his way back from a torn Achilles in January.
“Kam’s doing really well,” Napier said. “We anticipate him being available at some point during the season. Really pleased with that and I think he’s ahead of schedule a little bit. That process has went really well. Again, that’s a guy who we think has a bright future. Hopefully we get him in position where he can take some reps at the end of the year.”
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Farmer, who served as O’Cyrus Torrence’s backup last season, was also non-contact in the spring with an arm injury.
“He’s doing awesome,” Napier said of Farmer. “He’s added lean mass, which is unique coming off surgery.”
Napier added that cornerback Devin Moore and linebacker Derek Wingo, both of whom were non-contact in the spring, are good to go for fall camp.
“All have been through return to play protocol,” he said. “Those guys are participating. They’re completely cleared and participating in OTAs.”
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