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According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, Florida Gators quarterback Emory Jones has informed coaches that he intends to enter the transfer portal.
Source: Florida’s Emory Jones has informed Florida coaches that he intends to enter the NCAA transfer portal today.
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) March 18, 2022
The Decision
Although many Gators fans had expected Jones to enter the portal, the news still comes with some shock value. On Tuesday, Jones said this of his transfer status:
“I was really close,” Jones said. “But I mean coach Napier and coach [Ryan] O’Hara sat me down, a lot of the offensive guys sat me down and basically said they went through my film and said they really were excited about things that I have done. They think they can make me a way better player than I have shown. Basically, I just wanted to give them a chance.”
However, it appears that the quarterback will enter the portal after all, based on Thamel’s latest report.
Jones and the Gators
Jones’ time at Florida has had its ups and downs. The quarterback took over the starting job in the 2021 season after the departure of Kyle Trask to the NFL Draft. Jones faced criticism from many Florida fans, particularly regarding his passing ability.
Jones finished the 2021 season 224-346 (64.7%) in total passes. He threw for 2,734 yards and 19 touchdowns. However, the quarterback also threw 13 total interceptions on the year.
Throughout his four-year career with the Gators, the quarterback was 279-432 in passing with 26 touchdowns and 14 interceptions.
Looking Ahead
One of the many debates throughout Florida football last season was whether or not redshirt sophomore quarterback Anthony Richardson would be the better starting choice.
Now, with Jones in the portal, it looks like Richardson will take the starting position, at least for right now. Richardson was recently cleared to play after his knee surgery that took place at the end of last season.
Richardson finished last season 38-64 (52.9%) in passing with 529 yards, six touchdowns and five interceptions.
It appears that Richardson will take the lead for the Gators heading into next season.
