Gators In The NFL: Despite Cuts, Florida Still Has 39 Players On Active Rosters

Photo TexansWire.USAToday

With the NFL preseason wrapping up, many Florida Gators were in action competing for a roster spot the past few weeks. While some shined, others were looking to make that final 53-man cut list. Despite the downsizing of rosters, 39 Gators remain active in the NFL.

Let’s see how a few fared within the pros.

Dameon Pierce

Dameon Pierce turned a massive number of heads this preseason for the Houston Texans and may have even secured the starting role.

Over the course of the preseason, ProFootballFocus had a 94.2 grade on him, which qualifies him for the highest preseason grade of any running back since 2006.

Pierce flashed many moments during his time here in Gainesville proving he is capable of being an every down back. With the Texans, Pierce has consistently displayed a combination of speed and cuts, making the first guy miss.

To no Gator fans' surprise, Pierce has positioned himself well for a case at the top of Texan’s running back depth chart.

Malik Davis

The other part of the two-headed monster in the Florida backfield was Malik Davis.

After clearing waivers, Davis reportedly plans to sign with the Cowboys’ practice squad after impressing during the offseason. Davis was undrafted and was signed by the Cowboys following the draft.

Kairr Elam

The 23rd pick in the 2022 Draft, Kairr Elam impressed for the Bills during this preseason.

After showing his lockdown capabilities throughout the first three games, it will be too hard to keep Elam off the field for the Bills. With the recent news coming out that star cornerback, Tre’Davious White will start the season on reserve/PUP resulting in missing the first four games. This opens an opportunity for Elam to step in and make an immediate impact for a Super Bowl contender in the Bills.

In over 41 coverage snaps, Elam had only 3 catches allowed on him. Elam seems to be representing DBU well.

Zach Carter

Carter is another Gator who blew expectations out of the water. He guaranteed his spot on the Cincinnati Bengals after showing his capability.

His defining moment came when he made a strip-sack fumble against the Rams, giving Gator fans a pleasant memory. He played defensive end at Florida, but has transitioned to defensive tackle and now provides a pass-rushing element up the middle for the Bengals they needed last year.

Practice Squad

The below players are Florida alumni that did not make the 53-man roster. Some players have already signed or will have the opportunity to sign with a practice squad.

Donovan Stiner - Pittsburgh

Duke Dawson - Panthers

Antonio Valentino - Seahawks

Eddy Pineiro - Jets

Quincy Wilson - Dolphins

Jeff Driskel - Texans

Will Grier - Cowboys

Freddie Swain - Seahawks

La’Mical Perine - Jets

Final rosters come out for the NFL later this week