Ivey returns, Telfort in spotlight

GAINESVILLE — UF LT Martez Ivey practiced Thursday after sitting out earlier this week due to swelling in his knee.

Ivey worked with the first-team offense, but exited after two snaps in favor of first-year freshman Kadeem Telfort. Ivey seemed to be fine. Telfort worked with the first team because he is expected to have a key role up front.

One of five early enrollees in January, the 6-foot-7, 300-pound Telfort has developed physically and learned his position.

“Physically, he's done a great job,” coach Jim McElwain said. “I think one thing I've seen him do is really learn to trust. And number two, learn to talk the guy next to him. And it’s really seemed to elevate his game as far as knowing what the look is and now knowing what the assignment is.”

Freshman CB Marco Wilson continued to line up with the first-team defense. The Fort Lauderdale native primarily has played nickel back, but lined up outside Thursday.

Wilson, the younger brother of former UF CB Quincy Wilson, is among a crop of freshmen defensive backs expected to contribute. The Gators lost three 2016 starters to the NFL and S Marcell Harris to an injury suffered in July. Marco Wilson has made the most immediate impact.

“He kind of reminds me of his brother a little bit,” senior S Nick Washington said. “He’s kind of physical on the line of scrimmage and he’s really knowledgeable. He’s in the right place at the right time.”

Next game: UF vs. Michigan (Arlington, Texas), Sept. 2, 3:30 p.m., ABC