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Reports: Gators' Montrell Johnson Jr. had minor knee surgery

GAINESVILLE, Fla. -- Florida running back Montrell Johnson Jr. is considered week to week following arthroscopic knee surgery, according to multiple reports Saturday.

Johnson was injured during the opening days of training camp, a source told the Associated Press. His surgery was considered minor, the source added, and he's expected back in time for the Gators' season opener against in-state rival Miami on Aug. 31 in the Swamp.

Johnson, a senior who followed coach Billy Napier to Gainesville from Louisiana-Lafayette, led the Gators in rushing the last two seasons. He had 817 yards and five touchdowns on the ground in 2023. He had 841 yards rushing and 10 touchdowns in 2022.

Florida lost backup running back Trevor Etienne to SEC rival Georgia following last season. Former Tulane standout Cam Carroll is not expected to play again following a significant knee injury.

The Gators have junior college transfer Ja'Kobi Jackson, sophomore Treyaun Webb and freshman Jaden Baugh to help fill the void during training camp. Baugh ran for 77 yards on 12 carries in the spring game in April.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.