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Florida wide receiver Justin Shorter makes decision on future

On3 imageby: Tyler Mansfield12/25/21TMansfieldMedia
On3 image
Florida wide receiver Justin Shorter against Tennessee last season. (James Gilbert/Getty Images)

Florida redshirt junior wide receiver Justin Shorter has announced that he’s returning to Gainesville to play another season with the Gators.

A 6-foot-5 wideout who transferred to Florida after playing two seasons at Penn State, Shorter – a former On3 Consensus five-star recruit out of the 2018 class – will be back with the program under the direction of new head coach Billy Napier.

Shorter finished the 2021 season with 41 receptions for 550 yards and three touchdowns. His best performance of the year came against LSU on Oct. 16, as he made six catches for 113 yards and two touchdowns. In 25 total games with Florida, Shorter has tallied 818 yards and six touchdowns on 66 receptions.

Shorter had a scary ending to the season in the Gators’ Gasparilla Bowl loss to UCF on Thursday, as he suffered a neck injury and had to be carted off the field and transported to the hospital. He was cleared the leave the hospital on Friday.

Family of Justin Shorter releases statement after frightening injury

On Thursday, Florida wide receiver Justin Shorter terrified the football world after being stretchered off the field in the Gasparilla Bowl. However, great news came to light on Friday — Shorter’s family released a positive update on the Florida wide receiver.

“We are happy to share that Justin is doing well, is clear to head home today and is on his way to a full recovery! We would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of prayers, love and endless support — he is going to be fine!” wrote the family of Shorter.

“Special thanks to everyone of the UF athletic staff and St. Joseph’s Hospital for their professionalism, care and support they have shown Justin and our family. Wishing everyone a Happy Holiday and a blessed 2022! Go Gators!”

After what looked like a devastating hit, Florida faithful sent their prayers and well wishes to Shorter and his family. Luckily, Shorter is in great spirits, and ready to spend Christmas with his family.

The Gators may not have won the Gasparilla Bowl, but all of Florida couldn’t be happier to hear the great news regarding Justin Shorter.

On3’s Stephen Samra contributed to this report.