Urban Meyer explains why he doesn’t see Florida firing Billy Napier
By Jyesha Nance
Published:
The 2025 season began with high hopes for the Florida Gators. They entered with a top-25 ranking, a quarterback in the Heisman race, and expectations of contending in the SEC. However, through the early stretch, the Gators have looked anything but elite under head coach Billy Napier.
Since arriving in Gainesville in 2021, Napier’s tenure has been a rollercoaster. His overall record is 20-22, with an SEC record of 10-15 as of September 2025. This year, the Gators have struggled early against competition like Miami and South Florida and sit at 3-1 through 4 weeks. At this point in his tenure, this product from Billy Napier is simply unacceptable for much, if not most of Gator nation.
And now, former Gators HC Urban Meyer has weighed in. He argued on The Triple Option podcast that he doesn’t see Napier being fired after this season, mainly because the $21 million buyout looming over Florida could insulate Napier from being ousted prematurely.
““I don’t see them making the change right now with $21 million… Where you getting that money from?” said Meyer.
The Gators are currently 1-3 and have one of the most difficult schedules the remainder of the 2025 season. Six of their remaining matchups come against top 25 opponents. Many analysts and fans alike are questioning if Napier can lead the Gators to success on this tough road ahead. Their playoff chances seem to have disappeared, but they still have a chance at least to compete in a bowl game at the end of the season if they can secure 6 or more wins.
Florida is back in action next week after observing a bye in Week 5. The Gators will face a Texas team led by Arch Manning, who will be looking to prove himself after a rough start to the year.
