Nominated for Bednarik Award, Shemar James is back to lead Florida Football

Florida linebacker Shemar James has been named to the Bednarik Award Preseason Watch List, a prestigious award for the most outstanding defensive player in college football. This recognition comes as James prepares for a pivotal season following a challenging 2023 campaign marred by injury.

James's return could prove instrumental as the Gators look to rebound from a disappointing year.

James's impact was immediate upon his arrival in Gainesville. In 2022, he was named an All-SEC Freshman, ranking sixth on the team in total tackles behind a group of players who would go on to the NFL (Ventrell Miller and Amari Burney). His rookie season showcased his potential and set high expectations for his sophomore year.

However, the 2023 season took an unexpected turn. James, who had been leading the Gators in tackles through the first seven games, suffered a knee injury during pregame warmups before the team’s matchup against Georgia. The injury sidelined him for the final four games of the season, leading to a significant decline in Florida's defensive performance. The Gators' rushing defense, which had been relatively strong, allowed an average of 73.7 more rushing yards per game in his absence. Despite the setback, James finished the season ranked second on the team in total tackles (55) and tackles for loss (5.5), demonstrating his tremendous impact.

The Gators’ five-game losing streak in 2023 emphasized the impact of James's absence. Florida’s defense struggled without him, particularly their ability to stop the run. This was highlighted by their worst missed tackle rate in the SEC last season, a statistic that has become a focal point for improvement.

James’s return is poised to address these issues. With a missed tackle rate of 10.9% in 2023, he ranked in the top third among linebackers with at least 300 snaps. This efficiency in tackling was notably higher compared to teammates like Scooby Williams (22.4%) and Teradja Mitchell (26.7%). His performance metrics indicate not only his effectiveness but also the crucial role he plays in the Gators’ defensive schemes.

Having undergone surgery and a lengthy rehabilitation process, James has expressed optimism about his return. “It’s been great being out there with the guys and being fully cleared,” he told Swamp247.

As we highlighted last week, James is also a candidate for the Comeback Player of the Year, a fitting recognition given his challenging 2023 season. Alongside James, several Gators players have been named to various preseason watch lists, including quarterback Graham Mertz and running back Montrell Johnson. However, James’s return is perhaps the most critical for a defense in need of a strong leader and playmaker.