Will the Florida Gators be without star wide receiver Eugene Wilson III due to injury in Week 3 against Texas A&M?
Here’s the latest on Wilson’s status as the Gators approach their crucial conference clash with the Aggies.
What Happened to Eugene Wilson III?
Wilson was listed as questionable and a “game-time” decision for the Gators leading into Florida’s Week 3 clash against Texas A&M. Before the start of the game, Wilson was confirmed to be ruled out for the contest, with an unspecified injury.
It appeared likely that Wilson would be out for the game when he emerged out of the tunnel in shorts and no pads and did not participate in the final round of warmups.
With Wilson out, more of the onus to produce in the passing game will fall on veteran transfer Elijhah Badger.
While Wilson’s absence is not ideal for Florida, the Gators received good news when it was revealed that sixth-year senior quarterback Graham Mertz would return as the starter against Texas A&M after missing the team’s Week 2 battle due to a concussion.
True freshman quarterback DJ Lagway played extremely well in relief of Mertz, but Mertz will be given the nod moving forward now that he’s fully healthy again.
The Gators were enjoying stellar play from Wilson — a true sophomore — two games through the 2024 campaign. To start the year through the first two weeks, Wilson accumulated 13 receptions for 191 yards and a score. He was Florida’s leading receiver in all categories heading into Week 3.
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Entering the 2024 campaign, Wilson was coming off a 2023 season that saw him amass 61 catches for 538 yards and six touchdowns as true freshman. He emerged as one of Mertz’s top targets, alongside first-round pick Ricky Pearsall, and carved out a place early in his career.
Coming out of Gaither High School in Tampa, Fla., Wilson was a four-star recruit and a fringe top-100 prospect in the 2023 class.
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