Florida coach Jim McElwain said Monday that star sophomore wideout Antonio Callaway "should be ready to go" for the Gators in their season opener against UMass on Saturday.
Callaway was suspended indefinitely in January but rejoined the team shortly before being cleared in a Title IX investigation regarding a sexual assault allegation against him. The investigation was conducted by the school, a Title IX requirement for any sexual assault allegation, and it found Callaway not responsible for " conduct causing physical injury, sexual assault and sexual misconduct."
Though the result of the investigation brings Callaway back into the fold for Florida's pursuit of a second straight SEC East title, it was not without controversy. In the process of clearing his name, Callaway admitted to marijuana use and the alleged victim protested the hearing because it was being overseen by a season-ticket holder and former track & field athlete at UF.
Callaway has been cleared, but the same cannot be said for five of his teammates facing punishments for offseason (or preseason) issues.
- Junior cornerback Jalen Tabor and sophomore tight end C'yontai Lewis: These two got into a scuffle in practice that resulted in a one-week suspension from fall camp and cost them the opportunity to play in the Gators' season-opener.
- Freshman wide receivers Tyrie Cleveland and Rick Wells: Suspended after felony arrests for shooting a BB gun in and around a dorm on campus.
- Mystery senior: McElwain announced that a senior "who made some choices" would be suspended for the season opener. The player has not been named at this time.
Florida, a five-touchdown favorite in the contest against UMass, will address the status of the suspended players next week.
