Wilson became a focal point weapon early in the 2023 schedule and continued to serve in increasing quantities throughout the 2023 campaign. Screens, jet sweeps, and pop passes were among the planned touches that were used at first, but as the season progressed, quarterback tz’Graham Mers usage of traditional downfield targets increased.
summertHis ime enrollment and relative inexperience made it easier for Napier and Co. to get used to the elite-caliber talent early on. But early in his collegiate career, Florida was forced to incorporate him into the gameplan due to his explosiveness during practice sessions.
In the Gators’ 29-16 upset victory over No. 11 Tennessee in The Swamp on September 16, Wilson had six touches for 44 yards on the opening drive, signaling the start of a deliberate attempt to make use of his dynamic skill set.
Wilson continued to use more of the ball as the season progressed, even after suffering an injury in the game that kept him out of the next two games. On November 4, he finished the game with 90 yards and two touchdowns on eight receptions against the Arkansas Razorbacks. In four consecutive games, he scored the first touchdown for the Gators. Against Georgia, Arkansas, LSU, and Missouri, he reached pay dirt five times.
After 67 touches and 593 scrimmage yards, Wilson finished his rookie season with six touchdowns.
His performance has made him well-known as one of the best college football players in his first year of play in 2023. More importantly, Wilson’s production gives Florida’s offense a top-tier playmaking option going into the crucial 2024 season for head coach Billy Napier and his staff.
When the 5-7 year ends and Caleb Douglas (transfer portal) and Ricky Pearsall (NFL Draft) depart, he will be the most experienced wideout to rejoin the Gators.
In 2024, Wilson will look to build on his breakthrough campaign as the best receiving option in a young pass-catcher’s room.
