The Florida Gators’ running back room has been hit hard by injury, with sophomore Treyaun Webb expected to miss at least a month after undergoing surgery for a hamstring setback, according to a report by A to Z Sports on August 5, 2025. Webb, who suffered a season-ending injury last year, was poised to be a key factor in the Gators’ backfield alongside sophomore Jadan Baugh. His absence opens the door for true freshman Ja’Kobi Jackson to step into a significant role, likely as the No. 2 running back, as Florida prepares for their season opener against Long Island University on August 30, 2025.[](https://atozsports.com/college-football/florida-gators-rb-treyaun-webb-hamstring-surgery/)
Webb, a former four-star recruit, served as the backup to Montrell Johnson Jr. in 2024 after Trevor Etienne’s transfer to Georgia, but his latest injury—a recurrence of a hamstring issue from the offseason—has disrupted his expected contribution. Last season, Webb’s redshirt year preserved his eligibility, but his current recovery timeline could see him sidelined until late September, missing crucial early games. The Gators’ running back depth, already tested by injuries, now relies on Baugh, who rushed for 603 yards and seven touchdowns as a freshman, and Jackson, who impressed in the 2025 Orange and Blue Game with 198 yards and three touchdowns.
Jackson, a four-star prospect from Portal, Georgia, brings explosive potential to the Gators’ offense, with his 5.8 yards per carry and ability to break tackles (31% broken tackle rate in high school) drawing comparisons to Baugh’s freshman campaign. Coach Billy Napier praised Jackson’s development, noting his “quick burst and vision” during spring practices. With Baugh entrenched as the starter, Jackson’s emergence as the likely No. 2 back provides Florida with a dynamic duo to complement quarterback DJ Lagway, who is also managing a minor calf injury but expected to be ready for Week 1. Jackson’s increased role could see him feature prominently in Napier’s run-heavy scheme, especially against a tough SEC schedule.
The Gators, ranked No. 17 in the preseason Coaches Poll, face a pivotal season under Napier, whose 8-5 record in 2024 and late-season surge raised expectations. Webb’s injury, while a setback, offers Jackson a chance to shine early, potentially solidifying Florida’s backfield depth. As the team navigates a challenging slate, including road games against No. 13 LSU and No. 20 Miami, Jackson’s ability to step up alongside Baugh will be critical. Napier remains optimistic, stating, “Ja’Kobi’s ready to take on a bigger load,” signaling confidence in the freshman’s ability to help Florida maintain their offensive momentum.[](https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/emerging_florida_gator_set_to_miss_significant_time_opens_the_door_for_a_freshman_to_step_into_bigger_role/s1_17313_42547418)
