Unhappiness over playing time, or lack thereof, has led to two players parting ways with the Florida football program.
In a release, UF confirmed that tight end Gerald Christian and wide receiver Robert Clark have asked for and been granted a release from their scholarships. Both players were recruited by former head coach Urban Meyer and his coaching staff.
As noted by Jason Lieser of the Palm Beach Post, Christian and Clark are the eighth and ninth players to leave the program since Will Muschamp took over for Meyer in January.
“Both of these players have expressed a desire for more playing time and felt that it would be in their best interests to transfer,” Muschamp said in a statement.. “We wish them both the best of luck and appreciate their contributions to the program.”
Christian was a four-star member of the Gators’ 2010 recruiting class, and the No. 2 TE in the country. This season he had four receptions for 72 yards and a touchdown, but did not see the field near enough to his liking and will attempt to find another situation that will afford more substantial playing time.
“I’m looking for an opportunity to play more,” said Christian. “I have no bad feelings about Florida or the coaching staff, I just want to get a fresh start and see the field more.”
Clark, on the hand, had no catches this season after hauling in seven for 69 yards and a touchdown as a true freshman last season.
“I’ve enjoyed being a part of the Gator program but at the same time I’m excited about future opportunities to play more,” Clark said. “I will have nothing but good memories from my time in Gainesville.”
It’s unknown at this point in time where either player might ultimately land.