The Florida Gators kicked off preseason practices Monday, but at least four players skipped the workout.
UF wide receivers Kadarius Toney, Trevon Grimes and Jacob Copeland and defensive end Zachary Carter all missed Monday's practice, a source told the Orlando Sentinel. Sports Illustrated's Zach Goodall was the first to report the players skipped the workout.
Florida coach Dan Mullen confirmed the Gators didn't have perfect attendance during a videoconference Monday, but he declined to identify the athletes or their reason for sitting out. The absences come against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic and movement among players seeking long-term health protection and compensation for their performance.
"We had a couple guys not practice today, but we'll see how that goes moving forward for us," Mullen said. "But, you know, I wouldn't be surprised if you have guys opt out. I'm going to support them fully. Really wouldn't be surprised if we had coaches opt out, to be honest with you. Coaches are at such high risk because of the age group that they're in.
"But we'll figure it out."
Some of top college players have chosen to sit out the season rather than risk contracting the virus. Meanwhile, the Big Ten and Pac-12 have canceled the 2020 season due to safety concerns and hope to play in the spring.
The SEC will continue to push toward the Sept. 26 season opening weekend faced with a list of challenges to navigate. Among the potential pitfalls could be convincing some players to put themselves in harm's way.
UF is ranked No. 8 in the top 25 coaches poll and expected to challenge for a College Football Playoff semifinal berth.
The SEC schedule will be released Monday, but the Gators' toughest opponent will be COVID-19. The virus led the two Power 5 conferences to pull the plug on football and and has infected millions of Americans.
The virus' highly transmissible nature has changed the way teams practice, prepare, meet and share meals. When Florida students return to campus during the coming weeks, avoiding infection could become more challenging.
"We're going to adapt to whatever happens as we continue to move forward," Mullen said. "I think it's the team that's able to adapt best to whatever situation _ there's a lot of moving parts _ and the team that's able to adapt will end up holding up that national championship trophy at the end of the season."
The Gators have listened to medical experts and followed protocols since 21 players tested positive for COVID-19 soon after players returned to campus in late May.
"Statistically speaking off of that, we're _ off of those numbers _ you would think the safe place to be is practicing football and doing organized team activities, because that's where our numbers greatly decreased," Mullen said. "That's the information we have now. That's why I feel comfortable.
"I can't tell you what's going to happen long term, but our guys have handled everything really well. I think our medical staff, UF people, that have helped our medical staff here within the athletic department, have done an amazing job creating a safe environment for our players and the coaches, as well."
