The Florida Gators certainly have not had the season they or anyone else thought they would have, now sitting at 2-4 on the season and ranked No. 11 in the SEC. Now, Billy Napier did get his big signature win of the season that probably saved his job that week against then-ranked Texas, but a loss to No. 5 Texas A&M sets Florida up for an important matchup against Mississippi State this week.
It is Homecoming Week for the Gators, and they got some good news on the defensive side of the ball with what looks to be the return of defensive tackle Brien Taylor Jr. and Jordan Castell. Neither players were listed on Florida's initial injury report midway through the week after missing some time.
Florida DT Brien Taylor Jr. and S Jordan Castell have been removed from the Gators' availability report. pic.twitter.com/qieVbr161H
— Graham Hall (@GrahamHall) October 17, 2025
The return of Taylor Jr. certainly helps strengthen the defensive line rotation, something that the Gators have needed for some time now. This will add depth to the line and allow more of a rotation in and out to keep as fresh a line on the field as possible.
This will be a key for the game against Mississippi State, as the Bulldogs love to run the ball. The top rusher for the Bulldogs is running back Fluff Bothwell, who has 465 rushing yards on the season and six rushing touchdowns, both categories he is the leader. Overall, Mississippi State has 1,106 rushing yards and 16 rushing touchdowns, something the Gators will have to hold on to Saturday.
The return of Castell is huge for the Florida secondary as he plays a major part in the Gators' pass defense. Going up against quarterback Blake Shapen, who has 1,201 passing yards on the season and nine passing touchdowns, will be tough for the Gators' secondary, but Shapen does have four interceptions as well.
Castell being on the field will help the confidence of this secondary and hopefully be the boost the Gators need for a homecoming win.