Over three days following Florida's embarrassing display against third-ranked LSU, the Gators were the subject of more unfortunate news: running backs coach Jabbar Juluke has been suspended for the next three games.
The details
Juluke was suspended through a joint decision by both Florida officials and the SEC, with an official statement released via its website.
The league stated that Juluke's suspension was given for his "involvement in an altercation" prior to the start of Florida and LSU's primetime game in Death Valley.
#Florida suspends RB coach Jabbar Juluke after his role in the scuffles pre game vs #LSU pic.twitter.com/1ToMAk6RJT
— The Verdin Verdict (@verdinverdict) September 17, 2025
SEC commissioner Greg Sankey released a statement condemning Juluke's actions as well as throwing his support behind the suspension: "Jabbar Juluke’s conduct during the pregame altercation reflects behavior that is unacceptable and not aligned with the standards of the Southeastern Conference," said Sankey. "Coaches are expected to be leaders and to de-escalate tense situations, and that did not happen in this circumstance. This suspension is appropriate, and any future misconduct by Jabbar Juluke will result in more severe disciplinary action."
Juluke, who also serves as an associate head coach for the Gators, will be unable to coach against fourth-ranked Miami, eighth-ranked Texas, and tenth-ranked Texas A&M, meaning he'll be absent for arguably the most difficult stretch in the hardest schedule in the nation.
He left a comment on the verdict by offering apologies to all parties involved and vowing to do better:
“I, first, would like to apologize to both Florida and LSU universities, their teams, staff and fans. I also sincerely apologize to the young athlete and his family. On Saturday, I reacted in a manner I’m not proud of. There’s no excuse for my behavior and I take full responsibility for my actions. In this game, emotional situations occur and bad reactions happen. I regret my reaction and commit to using this moment to strengthen my emotional intelligence. I know more is expected of us as coaches, and I commit to living up to that expectation. I believe growth is in ownership and learning from the good and the bad. I intend to use this situation as a teachable moment, not only for myself, but for those I impact. Again, I offer my sincerest apologies to both institutions and the staff and families involved.”
So far, no other Florida staffers or players have been given any punishment. The same goes for LSU, despite the Tigers appearing to play just as equal a part in the scuffle.
More fuel to the fire
The news quickly made its way onto social media, and fans have used it as more fuel to the fire Napier train.
Napier's comment on the suspension itself was published, and it certainly doesn't help to fight back against any criticism against him. “Coach Juluke’s actions prior to our game against LSU are not up to the standard of our program", Napier said. "Coach Juluke is a man of character and has taken full responsibility for his actions. I believe Coach Juluke will learn from this experience and be better for it.”
Napier has been on the hot seat since his team's atrocious home loss to South Florida in early September. A loss to rival LSU, dozens of frustrating comments to the media, and an overall attitude of being 'almost there' have caused many fans to jump ship.
The suspension of one of the most well-liked staffers on the team is certainly not good for someone looking to save his job. Instead of having to navigate through a few home and a 2-10 Florida State team, Napier will need to find a way to survive an entire three-quarters of a season, which seems unlikely at this point.