Graham Mertz shares reaction to being named starter, outlook for season

Now that Graham Mertz is officially Florida’s starting quarterback, he’s ready to get to work to prove coach Billy Napier right in his decision.

Mertz transferred to Florida after spending 3 seasons at Wisconsin in which he amassed 2,136 yards and 19 touchdowns.

Mertz takes great pride in being the Gators’ starter because of the program’s lineage of quarterbacks headlined by Heisman Trophy winners Tim Tebow, Danny Wuerffel, and Steve Spurrier.

‘It’s an honor and a blessing. I’m going to treat it as such. You have to walk with that every day,’ Graham Mertz on response when Billy Napier told him he would be #Gators starter.

— Edgar Thompson (@osgators) August 15, 2023

Mertz believes he has the capability to ignite a Florida offense which ranked 57th nationally in points per game last season.

Mertz: “I’m very excited about what this offense can be.” #Gators

— KevinBrockwayGators (@KevinBrockwayG1) August 15, 2023

A major detraction factor with Mertz has been his inability to elude pocket pressure. Mertz is confident he’s now overcome those woes and will be more dynamic.

Mertz said working with strength staff, he feels he has improved his speed and can be more mobile if pocket breaks down. He was sacked 23 times at Wisconsin last season. #Gators

— KevinBrockwayGators (@KevinBrockwayG1) August 15, 2023

Mertz’s first game under center will be when Florida opens the season at Utah on Aug. 31.