Ventrell Miller talks return to UF

In 2021, redshirt senior linebacker Ventrell Miller was sidelined after suffering a torn bicep. In 2022, Miller returns to Florida for his sixth season. Notably, this will be his final year to handle some unfinished business.

On Returning to UF

Miller is eligible for the 2022 NFL Draft but instead is using his COVID-19 year exemption to stay in Florida. Surely, the 23-year-old has been an important piece to the Gators. Now, he is among the most impactful returning starters on Florida’s defense, which struggled mightily in 2021.

Correspondingly, Miller believes he had a chance to be drafted but wanted to end his collegiate career on his own terms.

On His Injury Status

Miller has been rehabbing from surgery on his torn bicep since September 2021. Physically, he is “feeling pretty good” and credits the training staff for getting him back in shape. Head Coach Billy Napier confirms he is officially clear to be a full participant in practices.

However, he has been missing spring practices on Tuesdays and Thursdays due to scheduling conflicts with classes. Furthermore, he plans to graduate after this spring. Additionally, the starting linebacker mentions he is watching the practice tape and getting his “mental reps” in so he can stay up to speed.

On New Staff, Defense

Critically, Miller must catch up on a new scheme. Explicitly, he credits his new defensive coordinator, Patrick Toney, for keeping things simple for the linebacker unit.

Additionally, he complimentss linebackers coach Jay Bateman. Seemingly, the two have a great relationship with each other, based on the jokes about him. Surely, he credits Bateman for bringing some swag into the linebacker room.