Florida Football: Way-too-early 2022 depth chart projection

Florida Gators head football coach Billy Napier answers a question about his teams preparation during a weekly press conference at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, in Gainesville, Feb. 11, 2022. Napier was asked about coaching hires, recruiting, his team preparation plans and also mentioned the Gators will begin Spring practice March 15.Flgai 02112022 Napierufpresser 02 /

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Sep 4, 2021; Gainesville, Florida, USA; Florida Gators linebacker Ventrell Miller (51) tackles Florida Atlantic Owls quarterback N’Kosi Perry (7)during the third quarter at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Linebacker

Starting outside linebacker: Ventrell Miller
Backup: Shemar James

Starting middle linebacker: Amari Burney
Backup: Shemar James

This is a position that has been decimated by the transfer portal. Some of Florida’s leading tacklers have decided to move on elsewhere and it leaves the Gators with some questions in the lineup and little depth. Expect some transfers to be targeted after spring practice.

One of the two starting linebacker spots will be held by Ventrell Miller. Miller has plenty of experience but is coming off of a season-ending injury. The Gators need Miller to come back healthy or it could be big trouble for their defense.

The other starting spot is likely to be Amari Burney who has plenty of experience and recorded 44 stops last season. He is going to be depended on for leadership this season with such a thin position group.

The main backup right now might be Shemar James, one of the best recruits that Florida signed in this class. James does not arrive until summer, but he might be rushed into action.

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