Billy Napier Updates Florida LB Shemar James' Practice Injury
During his Thursday afternoon press conference, Florida head coach Billy Napier confirmed All Gators' reporting that sophomore linebacker Shemar James suffered a lower-body injury in fall training camp practice on Wednesday.
"Banged up a little bit yesterday," Napier said regarding the situation. "That's kind of day-to-day, to be determined."
James was scheduled to undergo further evaluation on Thursday morning to determine the severity of the injury.
During his freshman campaign, James surged into the Florida linebacker rotation, beginning in week one against Utah. His value as a second-level defender grew increasingly evident as the season went on, compiling 47 tackles, two tackles for loss, two sacks, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.
The consistent production in a high-volume role asserted himself as one of the key building blocks in the unit's future. James, as a result, is expected to take on a vital role in the Gators' defense during the 2023 season, stepping into the fold as the starting weakside linebacker after Amari Burney's departure this offseason.
There are big shoes to fill, but in an exclusive interview with AG in February, James expressed confidence in his ability in the expanded starting role.
"[I'm] just getting better each and every year," James said. "I know there's big shoes to fill, but, I mean, there's not really much pressure. You know, just going out, executing, just doing your role and playing your role. Just being comfortable and having fun."
Teammates and coaches have exuded similar faith in the Mobile, Ala., native to take the next step.
In the event that James is sidelined for an extended period of time due to the injury, redshirt senior Teradja Mitchell, redshirt junior Mannie Nunnery, junior Derek Wingo, redshirt sophomore Scooby Williams, redshirt freshman Deuce Spurlock II and freshman Jaden Robinson would make up Florida's group of available scholarship linebackers.
James' injury offers more room for competition at "one of the more competitive positions," Napier added.
Nunnery and Spurlock, in particular, would likely assume control weakside duties in the event of James' absence.
However, the full extent of the injury is currently unknown. All Gators will provide updates as more information comes to light.
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