Florida Football: Way-too-early 2-deep depth chart projection for 2019
Offensive Line
Offensive line coach John Hevesy displayed his chops for rectifying offensive lines by orchestrating an impressive turn around on the Florida offensive line. After giving up 37 sacks during the 2017 season, the offensive line only allowed 18 sacks in 2018. The offensive line served as the catalyst for the improvement of quarterback Feleipe Franks, the running game and the entire offense. The coaches will have their work cut out for them to replicate last season’s success as four starters will not return for the 2019 season.
An important story to track this off-season is the transfer of former Georgia Tech guard Parker Braun – a two-time All-ACC player. Braun could bring immediate improvement and leadership to the guard position for the Gators.
Starting tackles: Stone Forsythe, Richard Gouraige
Backups: T.J. Moore, Jean Delance, Michael Tarquin
Integral to the rebuilding process for the offensive line will be experimenting to find the best combination up front. With that in mind, it’s important to note that no player has his starting position confirmed and spring could bring dramatic changes.
Stone Forsythe received plenty of playing time in 2018 and should be first in line for the starting left tackle position. Richard Gouraige arrives this season with a redshirt season under his belt and with expectations to take the reigns at the right tackle position. Depth is also a huge concern heading into this season, which will provide opportunity for in-coming freshmen like Michael Tarquin to earn early playing time.
Starting guards: Brett Heggie, Noah Banks
Backup: Chris Bleich
Brett Heggie, most agree, has the opportunity to become a star on the offensive line. Unfortunately for Heggie and the Gators, he has endured several injuries that have hampered his play and development. If he remains healthy, expect Heggie to become the leader on the offensive line from the left guard position.
The right guard position could be anchored by Noah Banks if he’s healthy. Banks missed bowl practices and the game against Michigan for an unknown reason. Coaches hope to have a healthy Banks for spring as, again, depth is a concern at the guard position.
Starting center: Nick Buchanan
Backups: Griffin McDowell, Kingsley Eguakun
Nick Buchanan returns as the only starter from the 2018 offensive line, but that doesn’t guarantee he will start. If the coaches find a better combination, Buchanan could find himself in a backup role. Center T.J. McCoy transferred from the program this offseason and projected backup Griffin McDowell will likely still be injured during spring adding to the depth woes for the Gators.
With the depth chart at center being so thin, expect freshman Kingsley Eguakun to see significant reps at center. Eguakun will participate in spring activities and should provide much-needed depth and talent.