Billy Napier reflects on Emmitt Smith's impact on Florida

There are only a handful of individuals who had great college careers and went on to have great careers at the pro level. The Florida Gators have an individual who was not only great in the NFL but became all-time legendary. NFL Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith suited up for the Gators from 1987-1989 where he had a college football Hall of Fame career. He was an instant impact player from his freshman season. Current Florida head coach Billy Napier understands the importance of having Smith’s legendary presence around the current team. And recently, Napier reflected on the legendary Gators’ impact on his squad.

“Emmitt was great. For a guy my age, when Emmitt Smith walks up on you, that’s pretty impactful,” said Naiper. “But Emmitt did a lot for this place. He had an unbelievable career after the University of Florida, but when you think about his impact here as a player; I’m hopeful to see him around more often. This is a place he’s welcome. (He) did a lot for the place, and certainly, we’re trying to create an environment where those guys that played here can come back anytime they want to.”

Smith took over as the Gators starting running back in the third game of his freshman season. As a true freshman, he ran the ball 229 times in 11 games, amassing 1,341 yards on the ground with 13 touchdowns. Smith also had 25 catches for 184 yards. The NFL’s all-time leading rusher continued with the impressive numbers in his sophomore season but missed a few games with an injury. Overall, Smith ended his collegiate career with 700 rushing attempts for 3,928 yards averaging 5.6 yards per carry along with 36 rushing touchdowns with one receiving.

Napier discusses young Florida running backs

Florida probably hasn’t gotten off to quite the start many fans would have hoped for in Billy Napier‘s inaugural season leading the program, but there are a handful of positive things to build on going forward. One of them is an excellent set of young Florida running backs.

One of the first roster additions the Gators made after Napier took charge was the transfer of Montrell Johnson from Louisiana. He has emerged as the team’s leading rusher this season.

But not trailing him by much is true freshman Trevor Etienne, a four-star prospect Napier was able to convince to jump on board late in the 2022 recruiting cycle.

“I think those two guys have been a huge bright spot relative to what we’ve been able to do offensively,” Napier said Monday. “No question. Two new players, both of which are getting more comfortable, very capable. Both are smart players. Both are very consistent in their work ethic, their practice habits, their prep during the week.”