The University of Florida announced Tuesday that the football career of redshirt sophomore offensive lineman Roderick Johnson is over.
UF doctors diagnosed Johnson with congenital cervical stenosis, or a narrowing of the spinal column that inhibits the passage of fluid, making Johnson’s spinal cord more susceptible to further injury.
Johnson is the fourth offensive lineman the Gators lost over the last two years due to career-ending injuries, joining Drew Savary, Octavius Jackson and Nolan Kelleher.
Johnson suffered what coach Jim McElwain initially referred to as a “stinger” in Florida’s Spring scrimmage on April 3. Johnson lost feeling in his extremities, but walked off the field on his own accord.
Following Florida’s Orange and Blue Debut game on Saturday, McElwain said that Johnson’s prognosis “didn’t look good”, strengthening the rumors that the injury would be career-threatening.
"One thing I'll tell you this about any player: I will never, ever put him out there in harm's way," McElwain said. "Life's too short, man. Ain't gonna do it, ain't gonna do it to a young guy."
Johnson played in all 12 games for the Gators last season, starting three. He was projected to be Florida’s starting right tackle this season.
The loss of Johnson is a significant blow for a UF football team that was already depleted on the offensive line. Florida is left with just seven offensive linemen on scholarship, and the Gators will add six freshmen in the summer who will undoubtedly compete for playing time.
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