Billy Napier impressed with depth in running back room

As Florida starting running back Montrell Johnson Jr. continues to recover from minor knee surgery, the rest of the position room is thriving.

Head coach Billy Napier spoke to the media on Monday, following the team’s final scrimmage of the fall and provided an update on Johnson.

“Montrell is doing fantastic,” Napier said. “He’s been able to do a few things. We expect him to be able to participate in practice, whether that’s modified and at some point full speed, but we’ll give you an update.”

While it’s good news that Johnson is close to returning to the field, Napier’s comments came less than two weeks out from the season opener against Miami on Aug. 31. There is a growing concern among the fanbase that Johnson might not be ready for what feels like a must-win game, but confidence is growing when it comes to rest of the position room.

“We have confidence that Montrell’s doing great and feel good about his return. I do think that the four other kids have had fantastic training camps. It is extremely competitive. I couldn’t tell you who’s running out there next right now.”

Most are expecting sophomore Treyaun Webb to step in Johnson’s place, but true freshmen Jadan Baugh and KD Daniels, as well as JUCO transfer Ja'Kobi Jackson, are standing out.

“Webb has game experience, and I trust him,” he said. “He’s by far the best protector. He’s tough, he’s durable, he’s smart, but also standing back there behind it, and I’m watching Jadan Baugh and Ja’Kobi and KD in these two scrimmages, we feel good about that room.”

Napier says experience matters. Running back is about more than just finding holes and hitting the open field. Playing without the ball is half the position, and Webb’s pass protection gives him the leg up.

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