The Florida Gators had high expectations for senior running back Montrell Johnson Jr. as they entered fall camp. Unfortunately, those plans were temporarily derailed when it was revealed that Johnson, the team’s top running back, had sustained an injury that required arthroscopic knee surgery.
Although the surgery was considered minor, Johnson was listed as “week-to-week” in the aftermath. With just 11 days remaining until a major opening weekend matchup against No. 19 Miami, head coach Billy Napier offered a promising update on Johnson’s recovery.
“Montrell is doing fantastic,” Napier shared with the media, via On3’s Sam Gillenwater. “He’s been able to do a few things. We expect him to be able to participate in practice, whether that’s modified or, at some point, full speed.”
While Johnson’s availability for the Miami game is still uncertain, Napier expressed confidence in his progress. “We’re getting ready to turn the page into game week, and we’ll provide updates as we approach the game,” Napier said. “We feel good about Montrell’s recovery and are optimistic about his return.”
Johnson has been Florida’s leading rusher for the past two seasons, amassing 817 yards and five touchdowns last season. He averaged 5.4 yards per carry and 68 yards per game in 2023, while also catching a career-high 30 passes for 236 yards and one touchdown.
