Gators open spring seeking a top QB

The Florida Gators open spring practices Friday under new coach Dan Mullen following a 4-7 season and facing major question marks in all three phases of the game.

Here are five questions Mullen and his staff will look to address leading up to April 14’s spring game: recruits signed by Jim McElwain in three years, Jefferson was considered the top pass rusher in the 2015 class. With just 9.5 sacks in three seasons, he finally will have a chance to prove it. 2017 Bulldogs went toe-to-toe with Alabama before falling 31-24 to the eventual national champion. UF was 0-7 against ’Bama, Florida State and Michigan under McElwain and totaled just seven offensive touchdowns in the losses.

This time last year, McElwain predicted big things up front based on experience, a new position coach and a commitment to the offseason program. UF returns four starters, including senior Martez Ivey, and now looks to deliver on the promise.

JOHN RAOUX/ASSOCIATED PRESS Feleipe Franks returns as UF’s most experienced QB but he’ll have to learn a new offense under Dan Mullen.