Billy Napier shares advantages Graham Mertz has coming into 2024 season

Graham Mertz has cited unfinished business as the driving force behind his return to Florida for the 2024 college football season.

The next few months will be critical in his team’s development ahead of year three under Billy Napier. It begins under center with Mertz’s return as a locker room leader, something Napier cited as a leading benefit of having Mertz play in Gainesville for a second season.

“The first thing I would say is he has the respect of the entire organization and the respect of his teammates,” Napier said to kick off spring ball. “I think over time, his example – not only with his work ethic but I think as a competitor, has the toughness, the way he prepares, the way he treats people. Not just his teammates, but I would say all throughout the building. He’s a consummate pro.

“I think the quarterback sets the standard for the entire team and organization. And he’s done that. Him being back is a huge deal – not only for him personally and our team but for DJ [Lagway], as well. I think just in general, his leadership, his voice, I mean, the guy is – it’s a big deal for the Florida Gators that Graham Mertz is back to play quarterback. A ton of advantages. A ton of confidence there.”

Lagway is Mertz’ heir apparent, coming in as a five-star recruit and No. 1 quarterback in the 2024 class, per On3’s Industry Rankings. Fans in Gainesville are going to be itching to see what their new blue-chip gunslinger can do in Gainesville, but a strong second season from Mertz would keep him off the field for the time being.

Despite Florida’s 5-7 record during his first season in 2023 as QB1, Mertz was still able to finish the year with a rather impressive stat line. The Overland Park, KS, native completed 261 of 358 passing attempts for an impressive 72.9 completion percentage across 10 starts for Napiers’ squad.

He would throw for 2,903 yards, averaging 8.1 yards per pass, with 20 passing touchdowns and three interceptions. Mertz also had four rushing touchdowns on 62 carries for Florida this past season.

Florida will start its 2024 college football season inside The Swamp as the Gators welcome in-state rival Miami to Gainesville on Aug. 31. With Mertz likely to be the day-one starter — his performance could set the tone for the rest of Florida’s season.