Key Gators Backup Returns to Practice

Photo: Jack Miller III; Credit: Zach Goodall

GAINESVILLE, Fla. -- One of several notable upgrades on Florida's injury report released on Wednesday was the removal of Jack Miller III from the weekly list. 

UF's redshirt sophomore backup quarterback was sidelined for the first two games of the 2023 season and a stretch of practices dating back to mid-August, nursing what Napier once described as tendinitis in the rotator cuff of his right, throwing shoulder.

However, Miller's absence from Wednesday's report signaled his availability for Florida's Saturday home matchup with No. 11 Tennessee. Napier acknowledged that Miller has returned to practice ahead of the bout, after previously being listed as "questionable" for Weeks 1 and 2 but not dressing for either game. 

“He’s been able to participate all week. He’s done a good job," Napier said about Miller on Wednesday. "He certainly benefits our team when he’s out there.” 

Miller established himself as the primary backup to Florida's starting quarterback, redshirt junior Graham Mertz, during the team's fall training camp, thanks in part to the advantage of playing experience compared to fellow depth passer, redshirt freshman Max Brown.

A 2022 offseason transfer from Ohio State, Miller arrived at Florida with two seasons and six games of experience under his belt. He completed 7-of-14 passes for 101 yards and rushed for 22 yards and a touchdown with the Buckeyes.

Miller served as the backup to eventual No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Anthony Richardson, in his first season with the Gators. Following Richardson's pro declaration in Dec. 2022, Miller made his first collegiate career start at quarterback for Florida in its 30-3 loss to Oregon State in the Las Vegas Bowl. He completed 13-of-22 passes for 180 yards in that game. 

“I played with Jack at Ohio State, so me and Jack already previously had a relationship," Florida offseason linebacker transfer Teradja Mitchell said about Miller on Aug. 11. "I like the way Jack’s been working since I’ve been here. He’s really matured as a player, as a young man. I’m proud of Jack."

Brown and graduate walk-on Micah Leon combined to complete four-of-six passes for 40 yards against McNeese State in Week 2 when Miller was unable to play and Florida pivoted to its quarterback reserves late in a blowout victory.

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