Florida QB Graham Mertz in concussion protocol after leaving Miami game

Florida starting quarterback Graham Mertz is in the concussion protocol, according to head coach Billy Napier.

Mertz left the game under his own power after taking a big hit in the third quarter. He immediately winced in pain and moved his hands toward his eyes, which may indicate a fencing response.

“Graham had a concussion,” Napier said. “He’ll be in protocol and we’ll give you an update when we meet with you Monday and Wednesday of next week.”

Mertz completed 11 of 20 passes for 90 yards and an interception in the loss. He also ran the ball six times for a combined three yards, including sack yardage.

Florida turned to true freshman DJ Lagway after Mertz left the field. The first-year quarterback completed three of six passes for 31 yards and an interception while rushing for 20 yards on four attempts.

Those numbers don’t tell the whole story for Lagway, though.

“I think (Lagway) did a lot of good things,” Napier said. “In particular the second drive there, we got to some things where he had success, threw some great individual cuts, some good movement passes and made a few plays with his feet. I thought the players around him played well. So, it’s good.”

Lagway also orchestrated the most inspired drive of the day for the Gators, which resulted in a 1-yard rushing touchdown from Treyaun Webb.

“One of the positives was he had some success and we were able to go down and score touchdown with him in the game. Obviously, he’s a young player, but he’ll continue to work and improve. He’s got a bright future.”

Follow us @GatorsWire on X, formerly known as Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida Gators news, notes and opinions.