Gators Offensive Line: Season Defining Group

Last season, it was no mystery that the Gators’ offensive line as a unit struggled mightily. With an offense built to run first, results were varied in that department. However, in the passing game, fans were often frustrated by the amount of pressure. There were many instances in which quarterback Graham Mertz was forced to escape the pocket, which is not his strength. Bringing about changes, Billy Napier went out and hired Jonathan Decoster as the Gators’ assistant offensive line coach. Already having Rob Sale as the offensive line coach, Napier is amassing all the necessary tools. The key will be cohesiveness, as many of the linemen were either new starters or new to the program. Despite struggling, there is plenty of reason for optimism, as the new shuffled line offers promise. If the Gators hope to have a successful season, it will come down to the offensive line, and their discipline.

Returning Production

Often one of the more chastised members of the Gators offensive line, Damieon George has made the move from guard to tackle. Struggling to pass protect from the tackle spot, a move inside should turn his trajectory completely around. Coming in as a transfer from Alabama, George is much more suited to be a guard. Experimenting at both right and left tackle last season, the coaching staff decided that his future would be inside. Listed at a monstrous 6-6 and 350 pounds, the size is certainly there. Now having SEC experience, the transition inside to guard shouldn’t take too much acclimating. Needing to be a leader for the younger lineman, George has a huge role in defining the season. Already experienced with Mertz and knowing how he operates; George should be much more consistent. If the run game is to get going, it will be because of George.

Manning the other tackle spot last season, Austin Barber’s return is key for this line. One of the more consistent and productive members of this group, Barber started eight games last season. Starting many of the biggest games against SEC opponents, Barber has experience under his belt. With the entire unit struggling with ill-timed penalties and physicality, Barber was one of the lone bright spots. Certainly not an all-world tackle, Barber played smart, and Gator fans had fewer worries about him than the rest of the line. Allowing 39 sacks last year, Florida ranked near the bottom of the NCAA in protecting the quarterback. With both guards transferring out, this revamped line couldn’t be much worse. With Barber at one of the tackle positions, and now George at guard, the line should experience growth. Built to run first, the season will be defined, however, by the pass protection.

Young and Ready

Thanks to the departure of Richie Leonard IV to in-state rival Florida State, Knijeah Harris must step up. The sophomore from IMG was rated as a 3-star by 247sports.com back in 2023. With a year of developing and learning the offense, Harris will have a big role in the fall. Playing in every game, Harris even had the chance to start once against Charlotte. Already having a feel for the way the offense runs, the transition into a starting role should be seamless. Playing in spot duty for Micah Mazzccua the other guard, Harris does have SEC experience. Despite not starting most of the season, Harris played in some big games. Helping the Gators in many of their biggest rushing performances, Harris should be an anchor on the inside. Looked upon as one of the rising stars, Harris has a chance to prove himself as the future of the offensive line.

Although on the older side, center Jake Slaughter wasn’t the clear-cut starter last season. With stud center Kingsley Eguakun starting, Slaughter wasn’t expected to be a big-time contributor. However, Eguakun struggled with his health and was sidelined for over half the season. Due to this injury, Slaughter was thrust into a starting role and performed valiantly. Starting eight games last season, Slaughter was rated as a top 15 center in terms of his Pro Football Focus grade. Playing over 600 snaps last season, Slaughter will be viewed as the captain of this unit. With Eguakun off to the NFL, this is now Slaughter’s starting job and his unit to lead. One of the few bright spots on the line, Slaughter will look to build upon a promising 2023 season. If the Gators hope to stick to their run-first philosophy, Slaughter will have to pave the way on the inside.

Transfer Additions

With all the moving parts, the Gators had to turn towards the transfer portal for both depth and starting value. Bringing in Brandon Crenshaw-Dickson was huge for this unit, as he provides both size and starting potential. Coming over from San Diego State, Crenshaw-Dickson started nine games for the Aztecs. Showing off his positional versatility, he made starts at both left and right tackle. Pegged by many as one of the expected starting tackles, Crenshaw-Dickson will hope to make the SEC transition without bumps. A clear up in the competition, the SEC speed of play could prove to be a challenge early on. Putting up a solid albeit unspectacular performance in the orange and blue game, Dickson showed he can handle his own pass blocking. Known to be his strength, his addition could be huge, as the pass blocking for this unit was oftentimes subpar.

The other big-time addition, Devon Manuel comes to Gainesville via the Arkansas Razorbacks. Expected to slide in behind Austin Barber on the depth chart, Manuel brings size to this unit. Listed at a ridiculous 6 foot 7, Manuel started four games last season for the Razorbacks. With Barber recovering from an injury, Manuel got the start for the orange and blue game. Finishing with an up-and-down performance, his talent was evident, however, the defensive line made him look foolish at times. Arguably outperforming Crenshaw-Dickson, Manuel was much less consistent. With some great blocks and some key whiffs, Manuel showed that he might still need time to develop. With a full offseason under his belt, Manuel could be a key contributor off the bench. If this unit wants to succeed, the starters and the depth pieces need to be much improved from last season.