The altercation reportedly occurred during a team meeting earlier this week, escalating into a verbal confrontation between Coach Napier and several players. The exact details remain undisclosed, but sources indicate that disagreements over team management and strategic direction were central to the dispute.
The five players who have entered the transfer portal are:
Trevor Etienne (Running Back): Etienne, a standout performer for the Gators, rushed for 719 yards and six touchdowns as a freshman in 2022, earning a spot on the SEC All-Freshman Team. In his sophomore year, he continued to impress with a career-high 173-yard game against Tennessee and concluded the season with 753 rushing yards and eight touchdowns. Etienne announced his decision to transfer on December 7, 2023.
Jack Pyburn (Edge Rusher): Pyburn, known for his energy and on-field production, was the sole main defensive contributor to enter the transfer portal prior to the Gators’ bowl game preparations. Reports suggest that disagreements over Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) demands and on-field guarantees influenced his decision.
Shemar James (Linebacker): A former Freshman All-SEC performer, James recorded notable stats in his initial seasons but did not evolve into the dominant linebacker anticipated. His decision to transfer follows the recent turmoil within the program.
Jake Slaughter (Center): As Florida’s starting center, Slaughter was recognized as one of the nation’s best pass-blocking centers. With eligibility remaining, he has chosen to seek opportunities elsewhere, potentially to enhance his prospects for the NFL Draft.
Caleb Banks (Defensive Lineman): Despite garnering considerable NFL attention and initially announcing his return for a senior season, Banks has reversed his decision in light of the recent conflict, opting to enter the transfer portal.
This mass exodus underscores the challenges facing the Gators’ football program under Coach Napier’s leadership. The departures of key players could have significant implications for team performance and recruitment efforts moving forward. As the situation develops, stakeholders within the program will need to address underlying issues to restore cohesion and
competitiveness.