Montrell Johnson is ready to carry the load for Florida Football in 2024

Florida Football running back Montrell Johnson is eager to take on a larger workload in the upcoming season.

With the departure of a certain former teammate to Georgia, Johnson expressed confidence in his ability to carry the load for the Gators’ backfield. He emphasized a desire to play mistake-free football and showcase his receiving skills out of the backfield.

Meeting with reporters at SEC Media Days last week, Johnson said that he expects to be a bit more of a workhorse in 2024 compared to how Billy Napier has utilized him throughout his career.

“I expect to get the ball more coming into the future this next season,” Johnson said. “I’m not too worried about it, because I feel like I can hold the load on my own.”

Johnson came to Florida in 2022 when he followed Napier from Louisiana. He has gone over 800 yards both seasons in Gainesville with an average of 5.4 yards per carry in both years. Johnson has 17 total touchdowns as a Gator against just one fumble.

There was some belief that Johnson would test the waters of the NFL after the 2023 campaign, but the hope is that he can elevate his status similar to what Ricky Pearsall did this past season.

Given his anticipated workload increase, a 1,000-yard rushing season isn't off the table. But Johnson also praised the development of freshman running back Jadan Baugh, who he believes could have a breakout season.

"He's been shocking me every single day the way he preps, coming to work every day, and the way he attacks. Him being a freshman is kind of surprising to me."

If Johnson can continue to develop and get some help in the backfield, whether it's from Treyaun Webb, KD Daniels, or Baugh, Florida's rushing attack has the potential to be one of the better ones in the SEC in 2024.