Kim Klement – USA TODAY Sports
With the conclusion of the Florida Gators spring practice session, head coach Will Muschamp released an updated depth chart that held few surprises, save for one. At running back, the Gators had listed rising sophomore Matt Jones as the starter, as expected, but had redshirt junior Mack Brown ahead of super-freshman Kelvin Taylor as the No. 2 running back. Is there any way that Brown can hold onto the job next fall?
It isn’t like he lacks the pedigree to be a success. Brown came to Florida in 2010 rated as a four-star prospect and got an invite to the Under Armour All-American Game. He hasn’t been able to catch on, however, since coming to Florida, getting stuck behind talents like Jones, Chris Rainey, Jeff Demps and Mike Gillislee to name a few. Brown getting buried has resulted in just 40 carries for 167 yards in his collegiate career.
Brown will find it difficult to avoid getting passed over again, however, with Taylor coming for his job. The son of Florida legend and Jacksonville Jaguars star Fred Taylor, Kelvin was rated as one of the top ten overall recruits in the 2013 class and has the athleticism and toughness to make an impact right away.
The only reason he isn’t already No. 2 on the depth chart is because he has struggled to grasp the offense so far through spring practice. Developing mentally will be his biggest task this summer and if he can figure out the mental aspect of the game he should move back up the depth chart. Muschamp clearly expects him to get it done, telling reporters that the latest depth chart “isn’t worth the paper it’s printed on,” meaning everyone should prepare for changes when fall camp opens.
While Brown has plenty of talent to be a solid running back, he may get forced into garbage time during blowout wins in 2013 unless Taylor continues to struggle with the offense.
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