He’s survived an impossible schedule.
The Florida Gators are getting ahead of things and shutting down the rumor mill early. Florida AD Scott Stricklin released a letter to Gator fans on Thursday, announcing that Billy Napier would return as the head football coach in 2025.
A message from Scott Stricklin pic.twitter.com/NpLD6ktrHj
— Florida Gators (@FloridaGators) November 7, 2024
Napier is 15-18 overall nearing the end of his third season in Gainesville. He was one of the top coaches on the hot seat entering the season following a 5-7 season in 2023. Florida is 4-4 this year, staring down a tough finish consisting of at Texas, LSU, Ole Miss and at Florida State.
All things considered, especially after losing quarterback Graham Mertz for the season, Florida has been more competitive than expected. Now with freshman phenom DJ Lagway also injured, things are set up for a potentially tough finish to the season.
Stricklin got ahead of things today though, letting everyone know his intentions.
“I am confident that Billy will meet the challenges and opportunities ahead,” Stricklin said. “We will work alongside him to support any changes needed to elevate Gator football. As college athletics evolves, UF is committed to embracing innovation and strategy, ensuring the Gators thrive in today’s competitive landscape.”
According to a report from ESPN, it would cost approximately $40 million to move on from Napier and his staff. The report also states that Florida is using 70 percent of its NIL money on freshman and sophomore players.
Josh Heupel is 2-1 against Napier since his arrival at Florida in 2022. Both wins have come in Knoxville, as Tennessee still looks to get over the hump in Gainesville. The Volunteers are set return to The Swamp next fall.
Napier will enter 2025 on thin ice, once again tasked with a tough looking schedule.