Meyer: Florida Unlikely To Fire Napier Over Buyout

Florida is off to a 1-3 start — its worst opening since 1989 — leaving coach Billy Napier (20–22 overall) on a very hot seat. Former Gators coach Urban Meyer told The Triple Option podcast he does not expect Florida to fire Napier midseason because of an almost $21 million buyout, with nearly half reportedly due within 30 days and practical questions about where the money would come from. Meyer said expectations at Florida have shifted and become arguably unrealistic compared with his era. Napier pushed back on outside narratives about quarterback DJ Lagway, calling his walking-boot appearance “no issue,” affirming Lagway is the starter and saying he will remain the primary play caller. With a brutal remaining slate — including a matchup with No. 10 Texas and multiple top-15 opponents — the buyout reality and schedule make an in-season change unlikely. Scrutiny will persist and pressure could increase if losses continue.