Gator Football: McElwain Provides Injury Updates

Going into Saturday’s game against Texas A&M, the Gators could be without some notable players, including safety Nick Washington and running back Mark Thompson. Head coach Jim McElwain also said Florida’s leading receiver Tyrie Cleveland is doubtful with a high-ankle sprain.

Injuries Adding Up

McElwain said Cleveland was adamant about trying to go play and thought he did a good job in practice Wednesday.

Cleveland, who has two touchdowns and 326 yards on the season, missed the Gators’ homecoming game against the LSU Tigers with the same injury. Also on offense, Thompson is questionable and missed part of Tuesday and all of Wednesday’s practice.

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McElwain said he’s dealing with a heel injury and some soreness.

Freshman wide receiver Kadarius Toney is highly doubtful for Saturday as he continues to deal with a separated shoulder. Toney is fourth on the team in receiving with 107 yards and is averaging 9.7 receiving yards per game.

He’s also taken several direct snaps for the Gators this season and had a 50-yard completion against Kentucky earlier this season.

On the other side of the ball, safety Nick Washington will be out with a shoulder injury, and cornerback Duke Dawson has been sick, but practiced Wednesday.

Defensive end Jabari Zuniga is dealing with an ankle injury, and McElwain couldn’t confirm his status, but said “he wants to go.” Tight end Moral Stephens is good to go.

Finally, Brett Heggie is still in concussion protocol and sat out part of Florida’s game against LSU. The freshman offensive guard, named SEC Offensive Lineman of the Week prior to the homecoming game, was out in no-contact and cleared for individual drills, according to McElwain. His status will be the “call of the doctors” moving forward.

Florida will look to bounce back this weekend despite the injuries. The Gators and Aggies will kickoff Saturday at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN2.