Florida football: All eyes are on Walker Howard in the transfer portal

Everyone thought that Florida football had their QB out of the portal in Graham Mertz. Even though he wasn’t the first choice for many Gator fans, we’d accepted that he would lead the offense next year.

But now, a new candidate has emerged. LSU QB Walker Howard entered the transfer portal a few days ago, and now there’s some real smoke around him becoming a Gator.

On Monday, the Gators’ coaching staff went to Louisiana to see Howard. Even with Mertz signed, the Gator coaches know that Howard can unlock UF’s offensive potential.

Coming out of high school, Howard was a 4-star prospect out of Louisiana. He was ranked as the 40th-best player in the class of 2022, and the 5th-best QB in the class.

Gabe Brooks of 247 had some high praise for Walker out of high school. He says that Walker is a “Consistent, accurate passer to all levels” and has the “ability to extend plays outside the pocket”.

Not only is he sharp through the air, but his decision-making is excellent as well. He threw five picks in 316 throws, which is a rate of 63 pass attempts per pick.

Despite all his talent, Howard hasn’t gotten a shot at the college level. Being a true freshman behind Jayden Daniels will do that, though. His only pass attempts came in the Tigers’ bowl game against Purdue.

He went 2-4 for seven yards in the blowout. Hard to gauge his ability based on those numbers.

But there’s no denying that Howard has better arm talent than Graham Mertz. His arm strength, accuracy, and decision-making all surpass Graham’s.

This isn’t to say that Mertz can’t be serviceable under center for the Gators. He can absolutely run the offense well. But the Gators need someone better than serviceable.

While Howard still has a lot to prove, landing him out of the portal would be huge for Napier and the Gators.

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