Florida Gators are facing significant changes in their football program as two key departures were announced this week. During Tuesday’s media session, head coach Billy Napier addressed these developments ahead of Friday’s Gasparilla Bowl.
The first major change comes with Defensive Coordinator Austin Armstrong’s departure to Houston. Armstrong, who joined the program in 2023, is moving on to take a leading defensive role with the Cougars.
“Yeah, well, first of all, congratulations to Austin,” he said. “I think it’s obviously getting a chance to call the defense and lead the group. I think that’s his passion, and we were very supportive in that regard.”
The transition may be smoother than expected, as Armstrong’s role had already evolved during the 2024 season. Ron Roberts, who joined from Auburn as Executive Head Coach and Co-Defensive Coordinator, had assumed primary play-calling duties from the booth while Armstrong remained on the sideline.
Regarding plans for Armstrong’s replacement, Napier is taking a measured approach.
“All of that is to be determined,” Napier said Tuesday ahead of Friday’s Gasparilla Bowl. “I think we’re going to try to get the ballgame out of the way and take a deep breath. And kind of see where we’re at.”
The second significant change involves EDGE TJ Searcy’s entry into the transfer portal. While Searcy won’t participate in the bowl game, Napier remains optimistic about potentially retaining him.
“I wish T.J. nothing but the best. And maybe we’re not done there, you know. We’ll see,” Napier said. “I just think it’s a product of the world we’re living in, right?”
“T.J. has done a great job for us, been a productive player. He’s done a good job off the field, really grown up a lot. Proud of him and nothing but respect for him.”
Even if Searcy departs, the Gators maintain strong depth at the position. Napier highlighted several options to preserve defensive strength, including expanded roles for younger players—sophomore Kamran James and freshman LJ McCray—along with recent signees Jayden Woods and Jalen Wiggins.
“That’s a deep room. That’s part of the problem, right? I do think we got guys that can play over there. Kam and LJ can easily slid over there and play, not to mention George (Gumbs),” Napier said. “It’s a deep room, so I think we’ll be OK.”
“Obviously we got some good rookies coming in,” Napier said, “and that’s a position where we could potentially go add another player here.”
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