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Former Florida football player Janoris Jenkins called for current Gators head coach Billy Napier’s job on Thursday, though his reasoning had little to do with the team’s subpar play on the field.
Instead, the NFL defensive back cited his inability to get free sideline tickets in his criticism.
Jenkins played three seasons in Gainesville before moving onto an 11-year pro career. During that time, he helped the Gators win a national championship while racking up All-SEC honors.
He was kicked off the team in 2011 after a pair of marijuana related run-ins, but it seems he holds no ill-will towards his former school.
The same can’t be said for his animosity towards Billy Napier.
Janoris Jenkins took to social media this week to blast the coach for not allowing him an opportunity to get back on the field.
Napier don’t know Florida culture… how come alumni/ ex football players has to pay for game tickets.. that’s crazy, on top of that he doesn’t even reach out to us to have us come hang around the facility with the kids. Fire his a– Gators. That’s y the program has declined..
-Janoris Jenkins / X: @JJenkzLockdown
Taking it a step further, he’s offered to put his own name into consideration for the opening should the Gators heed his advice.
New coach needed.. Let me finish my degree so I can apply https://t.co/csLM6D0DV5
— Mr. do it (@JjenkzLockdown) October 10, 2024
At most every college game around the country, you’ll see a former player or two make an appearance on the sidelines. Jenkins says that’s not the case at UF.
That being said, it seems his anger could be aimed in the wrong direction.
Many in the comments section suggested that the policy was actually put into place by Florida AD Scott Stricklin before Napier was hired. Jenkins must not think the coach has done enough to fix the issue.
It’s an interesting take on Napier’s future in Gainesville.
While there are plenty of worthy talking points regarding a potential firing, most notably a 14-16 overall record since becoming head coach, this probably isn’t the most just reason to take someone’s job.