With Trevor Etienne gone, can Montrell Johnson Jr carry the load for Florida football running game?
Florida football has generated a consistent ground game in each of its first two seasons under head coach Billy Napier. The Gators have established a reputation for being a physical and tough team that can wear down opponents. A key component of this identity has been their running game, which has consistently produced solid numbers and provided a reliable foundation for the offense. However, as the Gators prepare for the 2024 season, they face a significant challenge in the backfield due to the departure of explosive playmaking running back Trevor Etienne, who transferred to rival Georgia during the offseason.
Etienne’s departure leaves a void in the Gators’ offensive scheme. He was a dynamic force, capable of making big plays and adding a dimension of speed and explosiveness to the offense. Without him, the Gators will need to find a way to replace his production. This is where Montrell Johnson Jr. comes in. The senior running back is poised to step into the spotlight and become the focal point of Florida’s rushing attack.
Even without Etienne, Florida projects to have a deep stable of running backs in 2024, led by the experienced Johnson. He has been a consistent producer during his first two years at UF, racking up 1,658 yards and 15 TDs. His ability to churn out tough yards and his reliable hands make him a valuable asset to the Gators. In numerous preseason polls and publications, Johnson has been projected as a preseason All-SEC first or second team running back, a testament to his talent and potential.
Johnson’s talent and experience have not gone unnoticed by the Florida coaching staff. “He split the backfield for three years,” Florida running backs coach Jabar Juluke said. “Just think if he was getting more carries, what he’d do. So, I’m excited about what he’s going to be able to do as a leader. Montrell is the ultimate pro, right? He works hard, he practices the right way. He’s being a leader; he’s been a mentor. He’s given the young men a great example of what it’s supposed to look like.” Juluke’s comments highlight Johnson’s leadership qualities and his commitment to excellence. He is a natural leader who sets a high standard for himself and his teammates.
Last season, Florida finished eighth in the SEC in rushing, averaging 149.8 yards per game on 4.3 yards per carry. These numbers indicate a solid but not dominant rushing attack. With Johnson poised to take on a larger role, the Gators are hoping to improve their rushing output and become a more formidable force on the ground. Can Johnson carry the load and lead the Gators to a successful season?
Florida football RB starter
Johnson is back for his third season at a starter at UF after rushing for a team-high 817 yards on 5.2 yards per carry and 5 TD in 2023. The 5-foot-11, 213-pound Johnson, who carried the ball 152 times in 12 games last season, could be in line for even more usage with the departure of Etienne. Johnson has the size and power to run between the tackles and the vision and agility to make plays in space. He is a complete back who can be a threat in all aspects of the running game.
Johnson is confident in his ability to carry the load for the Gators. “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 and just going out there and making sure I play mistake-free football.” His confidence is well-founded. Johnson has proven himself as a reliable and productive back. The increased workload will challenge him, but he is ready to meet the challenge head-on.
Johnson is also looking to expand his role in the offense. While he has shown flashes of ability as a receiver, he wants to become a more consistent weapon in the passing game. “I just want to catch more balls out of the backfield and just get in space more and show my ability to make the first defender miss,” Johnson said. This desire to improve all aspects of his game highlights his dedication and his commitment to helping the Gators succeed.
With his experience, talent, and leadership qualities, Johnson is poised to have a breakout season. The increased workload will test his durability, but his ability to handle the pressure and perform at a high level will be crucial for the success of Florida’s offense.
Florida football RB depth
While Johnson is expected to lead the way, Florida has a solid supporting cast of running backs ready to contribute. Rising sophomore Treyaun Webb showed promise as a true freshman last season. The 5-11, 210-pound Webb rushed for 163 yards and 2 TDs on 6.3 yards per carry last season, including a long of 43 yards on a carry against Vanderbilt.
Webb’s speed and agility make him a dangerous weapon in the open field. He has the potential to be a dynamic playmaker for the Gators. His development will be closely watched this season, as he looks to carve out a bigger role for himself in the offense.
JUCO transfer Ja’Kobi Jackson, after not carrying the ball last season, performed well in UF’s spring game, rushing for 60 yards on five carries, with a long of 32 yards. Jackson’s performance in the spring game was a positive sign that he is ready to contribute. His size and power make him a valuable asset in short-yardage and goal-line situations.
Cam Carroll, a transfer from Tulane, has been slow to recover from a torn ACL last season and may or may not be ready for the start of the fall. Carroll did not take part in spring drills. Carroll’s status for the start of the season is uncertain, but his experience and talent make him a valuable asset when he is healthy.
Florida football RB future
The future of the Florida running back room looks bright. True freshman running back Jadan Baugh displayed surprising speed and shiftiness in UF’s spring game, rushing for 77 yards on 6.4 yards per carry. Baugh’s performance in the spring game was a glimpse of his potential. He has the talent and athleticism to be a major contributor in the future.
According to teammates, the 6-1, 237-pound Baugh has carried that confidence over to summer workouts. “He’s been shocking me every single day the way he preps, coming to work every day, and the way he attacks,” Johnson said. “Him being a freshman is kind of surprising to me.” Johnson’s comments highlight Baugh’s work ethic and his commitment to improving. His willingness to learn and his determination to succeed are qualities that will serve him well in his collegiate career.
Baugh’s arrival adds another layer of depth to Florida’s running back room. With a strong group of experienced veterans and a promising young talent, the Gators are well-positioned for success in the future. The future of the Florida running back room is in good hands.
The Gators have a solid foundation in place, but they will need to find ways to improve their rushing attack to reach their full potential. The pressure will be on Johnson to carry the load, but he is ready for the challenge. With a strong supporting cast of running backs, the Gators have the potential to be a formidable force on the ground for years to come. The 2024 season will be a crucial one for the Gators, as they look to build on their recent success and establish themselves as a dominant force in the SEC. The running back position will be a key factor in their success, and Montrell Johnson Jr. is ready to lead the charge.
- Montrell Johnson Jr. is expected to step up and become the focal point of Florida’s rushing attack following Trevor Etienne’s departure.
- Johnson has been a consistent producer, accumulating 1,658 yards and 15 TDs in his first two years at UF.
- Despite Etienne’s absence, Florida is projected to have a deep group of running backs in 2024, with Johnson leading the pack.
- Johnson has been recognized in preseason projections as a potential All-SEC first or second team running back, showcasing his talent and potential.
- Florida’s coaching staff praises Johnson for his leadership qualities, work ethic, and commitment to excellence on and off the field.
- Johnson’s ability to churn out tough yards and his reliable hands make him a valuable asset to the Gators’ offense.
