Much of talk surrounding the Gators this offseason will undoubtedly circle around redshirt freshman Feleipe Franks. Many Florida fans are clamoring to see the former four-star recruit finally hit the field following two seasons of subpar quarterback play under head coach Jim McElwain.

Franks fielded several questions from the media Wednesday following Florida’s most recent practice and noted his comfort level has gone up considerably since arriving in Gainesville prior to last season’s spring camp.

“It’s a lot more than it was, I can tell you that,” Franks said. “I feel a lot more comfortable under center, doing everything I did last year (compared to) now, I feel a lot more comfortable.”

While many top recruits are entering college football expecting to play immediately, Franks seemed very appreciative that he got the opportunity to sit and learn last season.

“Being here a season, redshirting, it was really good for me,” Franks admitted. “Getting to know the players, getting to know the offense and how things operate around here at Florida has been really good for me.”

Despite not seeing the field during his first season on campus, the redshirt freshman doesn’t exactly lack confidence in his ability.

“I believe in myself,” Franks said. “I have the most confidence in the world in every throw that I make, that’s the mindset I have going into a game, like I said, I have all the confidence in the world in myself.”

If Franks wins the starting job entering the season, he’ll need that confidence considering the Gators open up in Arlington, Texas against a Michigan team that went to the Orange Bowl last season. Judging by his statements made after Wednesday’s practice, Franks believes he’ll be as prepared as possible to take on that big challenge come Sept. 2.


Follow Michael Wayne Bratton / SEC Mike on Twitter.