Zuniga struggling through injuries

to be a Gator, wanting to play on our defense and wanting to have a good year and help us win.

“I think those are the things that probably are more disappointing to him than anything.”

Grantham said Zuniga has remained engaged, helping young linemen Zach Carter and T.J. Slaton, among others.

“He’s still been a good teammate,” Grantham said. “That part of it helps. It doesn’t show up sometimes to the media and things.”

Gators add Sun Devils: The Gators continue to beef up their future nonconference schedule, with the latest addition a homeand-home series with Arizona State. UF announced the Gators will visit the Sun Devils in 2028, followed by a visit from ASU three seasons later in the Swamp.

Youth movement: The recent success of linebacker Mohamoud Diabate and cornerback Kaiir Elam, two of the top-rated signees in UF’s 2019 class, is an example of two ballyhooed first-year players continuing to learn and capitalizing on their chances. The Gators hope top defensive recruits are taking notice.

Diabate’s rise culminated with a three-sack performance against Vanderbilt, earning him SEC Freshman of the Week honors. Showcasing his blazing speed, Diabate stepped in for injured starter Jeremiah Moon and dominated off the edge against the overmatched Commodores despite playing just 19 snaps.

With Marco Wilson moving inside to replace Trey Dean at nickel back, Elam manned the cornerback position opposite CJ Henderson and played well, highlighted by a textbook pass break-up.

“Elam is a guy that has really good poise for a freshman,” Grantham said. “He doesn’t panic and can play the ball when he is in the air. He is talented. He is smart. He has the skill set you are looking for to play outside corner.”