GAINESVILLE — Florida is only two days into its spring practice season, but one position group is already working from behind.
Xavier Nixon, Matt Patchan and James Wilson — three offensive linemen who will likely be a major part of the Gators' rotation — are dealing with a mix of injuries and weight issues, Florida coach Will Muschamp said Friday.
Nixon, listed on the unofficial spring depth chart as the starting right tackle, needs to put on weight.
Muschamp said he wants to keep the 6-foot-6, 290-pound junior at tackle instead of moving him to tight end.
"He's certainly not where we want him to be right now, but again, Xavier's working hard at that," Muschamp said. "I'm proud of his efforts and what he's trying to do."
Patchan is still recovering from a wrist injury that kept him out all last season after multiple surgeries. The 6-6, 292-pound redshirt junior was a five-star recruit out of high school, but he has battled injuries throughout his career. Muschamp said Patchan is cleared for all forms of cardiovascular exercise and began lifting Friday, but he will likely not participate in any contact drills all spring.
Wilson, a senior guard, is working his way back from a knee injury. He is listed as limited, but Muschamp said Wilson has taken practice reps under close observation from offensive line coach Frank Verducci.
