Five optimistic predictions for Florida Football ahead of 2024 season

There are plenty of reasons for concern, but there are also plenty of reasons for hope
Florida Gators head coach Billy Napier talks with Florida Gators quarterback Graham Mertz (15) and Florida Gators running back Montrell Johnson Jr. (1) during fall football practice at Heavener Football Complex at the University of Florida in Gainesville, FL on Thursday, August 1, 2024. [Matt Pendleton/Gainesville Sun]
Florida Gators head coach Billy Napier talks with Florida Gators quarterback Graham Mertz (15) and Florida Gators running back Montrell Johnson Jr. (1) during fall football practice at Heavener Football Complex at the University of Florida in Gainesville, FL on Thursday, August 1, 2024. [Matt Pendleton/Gainesville Sun] / Matt Pendleton/Gainesville Sun / USA TODAY NETWORK
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Gators Will Have A Top Five Linebacker Unit

Florida was the worst tackling team in the SEC in 2023. There were many reasons why, but one massive one was that Florida's linebackers took a nosedive once Shemar James went down with a knee injury.

James is back for 2024, but just as important he will be flanked with support. Pup Howard got about 20 snaps a game last year as a true freshman with South Carolina and, just as importantly, had zero missed tackles.

Derek Wingo has experience, while Aaron Chiles and Myles Graham are exciting blue-chip prospects.

Add it all together and there is a pathway this could be one of the better units in the SEC.