GAINESVILLE, Fla. – For presumptive Florida starting quarterback Luke Del Rio, Wednesday must have felt like Christmas morning. The issue hanging over Florida’s football team since the beginning of spring practice was finally answered: Antonio Callaway is back.

Assuming Callaway is all the way back – coach Jim McElwain would only say that the star receiver would be back at practice, but did not say there was any change in actual status – the UF offense knows it has a proven playmaker for 2016.

In the season after losing reception leader Demarcus Robinson and 1,000-yard rusher Kelvin Taylor, that’s a big deal.

Since Callaway hauled in 678 receiving yards as a freshman, he was widely referred to as Florida’s leading receiver for 2015. He did it on fewer catches (35) than Robinson (48), but his ability to burn the opposing corner and weave his way in and out of a defense meant many of his receptions turned into big plays.

His stat line of three catches for 100 yards against LSU was surprisingly typical of the freshman phenom.

His return does not answer every question facing Florida’s offense this season. Del Rio needs someone he can look to in short-yardage to come up with the catch and move the sticks. Last season, that wasn’t Callaway.

He could step into that role this season, but it seems more likely that someone else, perhaps a tight end or veteran like Ahmad Fulwood or C.J. Worton will become the possession receiver and let Callaway work his magic as the burner and deep threat.

Fulwood, a coveted recruit from 2013, has yet to do much as a Gator entering his senior season. At the team’s media day, McElwain called on Fulwood to play more physical, which would fit into him being a short yardage pass-catcher, potentially going up against linebackers and safeties in the middle of the field.

When it came to talking about Worton, McElwain gushed about how far the 2014 signee from Homestead, Fla., has come in how handles himself.

The coach also said the third-year wideout is in impressive shape, perhaps more ready to go up against SEC cornerbacks. Worton’s hands and athleticism are certainly there, as shown by his highlight reception in the SEC Championship Game:

https://vine.co/v/i7KBAriBUAQ

While Callaway’s return means a slight bump down the depth chart for some wideouts, it should still be welcomed news for all Florida pass-catchers, as they all know that defenses will be focused on No. 81.

Offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier’s play calls frequently showed open receivers on the game film. If Callaway draws double coverages, that should open up even more wide receivers and tight ends.

While some noted that Callaway seemed to have a natural feel for former QB Treon Harris’ tendency to improvise, all Gators fans need to do is watch the highlight of season to be reminded that Callaway can be just as effective running his called route and catching a quick pass.

Ideally, the Gators will develop a strong receiving corps that draws some coverage away from Callaway.

But it all starts with No. 81, and it looks like he’s back.