Graham Mertz Injury Update, What Happened to Graham Mertz?
by S Samayanka | Updated Nov 20, 2023
Graham Mertz Injury Update
Florida Gators quarterback Graham Mertz sustained a non-displaced collarbone fracture during the Week 12 game against the Missouri Tigers, resulting in his exit from the match during the third quarter. The Missouri Tigers secured a 33-31 victory with a last-minute field goal. Backup quarterback Max Brown replaced Mertz, and Florida's coach, Billy Napier, confirmed that Mertz is likely sidelined for the remainder of the year.
The severity of the injury is still under evaluation, with a decision on potential surgery pending further imaging. Mertz's injury occurred while rushing for a first down in the third quarter, prompting his exit from the game. After immediate x-rays at Missouri's facilities, Mertz returned to the sidelines wearing a sling. The Florida Gators are now one win short of bowl game eligibility, facing the undefeated Florida State Seminoles in their next game.
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Who is Graham Mertz?
Graham Mertz, is an American football quarterback known for his role with the Florida Gators. Prior to joining the Gators, Mertz gained recognition playing for the Wisconsin Badgers before making a transfer in 2023. As a quarterback, he plays a crucial role in leading his team on the field. Mertz's journey in collegiate football showcases his talent and adaptability, transitioning from one prominent program to another.
His decision to transfer to Florida in 2023 marked a significant chapter in his career. With his birthdate in mind, Mertz is a young and promising athlete who has made an impact in college football, contributing to the competitiveness of both the Wisconsin Badgers and the Florida Gators during his collegiate career.
Team
Florida Gators
Jersey No.
15
Position
Quarterback
Class
Redshirt Junior
Major
Retailing & Consumer Behavior
Born
December 6, 2000
Age
22
Birthplace
Overland Park, Kansas, U.S.
Height
6 ft 3 in
Weight
225 lb
Name
Graham Mertz
Graham Mertz Early Life
During his initial high school years at Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park, Kansas, Graham Mertz began his football journey as a backup to all-state quarterback Carter Putz. Transitioning to Blue Valley North High School in Overland Park before his junior year, Mertz made a significant impact, leading his team to a Class 6A state championship as a junior and securing a state runner-up position in his senior year. In his remarkable senior season, he set a state record with 3,886 passing yards and 51 touchdowns, earning him recognition as the Gatorade Kansas Football Player of the Year.
Mertz's stellar performance also led to an invitation to the All-American Bowl, where he set a record with five touchdown passes and earned the game MVP title. Recognized as a four-star recruit by ESPN, 247Sports.com, and Rivals.com, Mertz eventually committed to playing football at the University of Wisconsin–Madison in 2017. ESPN ranked him as the best pocket passer in the class of 2019.
Graham Mertz Career
Graham Mertz's football career has been a rollercoaster of challenges and triumphs. Beginning at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, Mertz faced tough competition, ultimately redshirting his true freshman season after losing the starting quarterback role. However, in 2020, he seized the opportunity when Jack Coan's injury thrust him into the starting position. In his debut against Illinois, Mertz set records with 17 consecutive completed passes and a 95.2% completion rate, earning him accolades as the Big Ten Co-Offensive Player and Freshman of the Week.
The promising start took an unexpected turn with Mertz testing positive for COVID-19, leading to the cancellation of games. Despite overcoming the virus, Mertz faced challenges, including a subdued performance and an ankle injury. Despite setbacks, he contributed to Wisconsin's victories and even played in the Duke's Mayo Bowl, where he accidentally dropped and shattered the trophy during celebrations.
Mertz continued as Wisconsin's starting quarterback in subsequent seasons, showcasing both highs and lows. In 2022, he set a career high with 299 passing yards and five touchdowns in a game against Northwestern. However, just before Wisconsin's bowl game in 2022, Mertz announced his decision to enter the transfer portal. In the spring of 2023, he made a significant move by joining the Florida Gators, marking a new chapter in his collegiate football journey.
Graham Mertz Age
As of 2023, Graham Mertz is 22 years old, having been born on December 6, 2000. At this point in his life, Mertz has already established himself as a notable quarterback in collegiate football. His age of 22 places him in the early stages of adulthood, where he has navigated a significant portion of his collegiate career, showcasing both successes and challenges. Mertz's journey, from his high school achievements to his roles at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and, more recently, with the Florida Gators, reflects the maturation and development of his skills on the football field.
As he continues to evolve in his career, his age serves as a testament to the experiences and growth he has undergone, contributing to his overall narrative as a talented and dynamic athlete in the world of college football.
Graham Mertz Stats
2023:
2022:
2021:
2020:
2019:
What Happened to Graham Mertz?
During the Florida vs. Missouri game, Graham Mertz suffered a non-displaced collarbone fracture in the third quarter. After a successful rush, he was heavily tackled, prompting his exit from the game. Following an official timeout, Mertz signaled backup Max Brown onto the field and was seen being rushed to the locker room. He underwent immediate x-rays at Missouri's facilities and later returned to the sidelines in casual clothes with a sling around his arm. Florida coach Billy Napier stated that Mertz is likely sidelined for the year, and the decision regarding his availability for the next game will be made on Monday.
Graham Mertz Injury Update - FAQs
The decision is pending evaluation, but Coach Napier stated Mertz is likely sidelined for the year.
Mertz suffered a non-displaced collarbone fracture after a heavy tackle in the third quarter.
Backup quarterback Max Brown took over for Mertz in the game against Missouri.
The decision on surgery is pending further imaging; initial belief is it may not be required.
After immediate x-rays at Missouri's facilities, Mertz returned in casual clothes with a sling around his arm.