Florida QB Graham Mertz has torn ACL, ending his college career - ESPN

Florida quarterback Graham Mertz will have surgery and sit out the rest of the season after tearing the ACL in his left knee during Saturday's overtime loss to Tennessee, coach Billy Napier announced Monday.

«It's only right that I say how much I appreciate what he's brought to the team,» Napier said.

It was an excruciating way for Mertz, a sixth-year senior, to end his college career. It was a noncontact injury that occurred after he threw a 13-yard touchdown pass to Arlis Boardingham midway through the third quarter to put Florida ahead 10-0.

As Mertz was backing up after making the throw, his leg appeared to land awkwardly on the turf. He was tended to by trainers, limped off the field and slammed his helmet to the ground when he reached the sideline. Mertz watched the fourth quarter on crutches and wearing a brace on his knee.

With Mertz sidelined, Florida will turn to true freshman DJ Lagway full time at quarterback.

Mertz sent a message on social media to Florida fans and thanked them for «two incredible years in Gainesville.» During his recovery, he vowed to «remain a part of the program and do whatever I can in meeting rooms and from the sideline to help my teammates win.»

Thank you, Gator Nation