Several analysts predict that Florida might fire Billy Napier before the season starts, primarily due to a lawsuit filed by ex-Gators QB commit Jaden Rashada. The lawsuit involves Napier, top Gators booster Hugh Hathcock, and former football staffer Marcus Castro-Walker over an unpaid $13.85 million NIL deal.
Michael Bratton commented, “Never would have imagined Billy Napier would be fired before the season, but can’t completely rule it out now.”
Adam Luckett from Kentucky Sports Radio suggested that this situation could create a “fired for cause” scenario for Florida, stating, “That’s blatant cheating by Billy Napier per the NCAA ‘rules’ if true.”
Brandon Walker of Barstool Sports wrote, “If Billy Napier actually promised a recruit a $1 million payment on Signing Day and then backed out, how can Florida keep him? I know he’s been a disaster as Florida’s coach, but holy s***.”
Reportedly, Napier and his associates led Rashada to believe he would receive a substantial NIL deal without intending to fulfill this promise, leading to Rashada’s de-commitment from Florida and subsequent commitment to Arizona State University. At ASU, Rashada played in three games, completing 44 of 82 passes with four touchdowns and three interceptions.
Rashada has since transferred to Georgia, where he is set to be Carson Beck’s backup in 2024, with the potential to become the team’s starting quarterback in 2025.
Given the circumstances, it’s understandable that Rashada might harbor resentment towards Napier and the Gators program. His transfer to Georgia, a major rival of Florida, makes sense not only for personal reasons but also for the championship opportunities with the Bulldogs.
Rashada’s turbulent career trajectory raises questions about what might have been had he stayed at Florida and received the promised NIL deal. For his sake, Napier’s potential dismissal could offer a form of justice if the claims in the lawsuit are true.
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