Gators’ secondary will need rookies

GAINESVILLE — The 2016 Gators backed up their claim to the fictional title of Defensive Backs University, leading the nation with just eight touchdown passes allowed.

But losing three defensive backs during the second round of the NFL draft leaves the Gators with some holes in the back end of the defense. Coach Jim McElwain and his staff hoped to fill them by signing six defensive backs in the 2017 class.

Several could have key roles, beginning with Saturday’s season opener against Michigan.

“I’m excited about those young DBs,” McElwain said. “I’m excited about what they’ve done.”

Freshman CB Marco Wilson, the younger brother of NFL second-round pick Quincy Wilson, is the furthest along.

S Donovan Stiner has worked his way into the team’s dime package.

Shawn Davis has handled first-team reps at safety. Fifth-year senior S Nick Washington’s long-term shoulder issues could open the door for playing time.

“He will play; don’t get me wrong,” McElwain said of Washington. “But as we know he’s been in and out of injuries kind of throughout his career back there.”

CBs C.J. Henderson and Brian Edwards and S Brad Stewart have shown flashes and will be counted on to play special teams.

Next game: No. 17 UF vs. No. 11 Michigan (Arlington, Texas), Saturday, 3:30 p.m., ABC