There were times when it was unknown whether Neiron Ball would ever be factor again for the Florida Gators.
He played every game as a true freshman in 2010, then missed all of last season after a blood vessel burst in his brain. His life was in danger at one point, making football an afterthought.
He returned, though, and has been a significant piece of the defense this year. As No. 3 Florida prepares for this Saturday’s home game against No. 9 South Carolina (3:30 p.m., CBS), Ball is a big part of the plan.
“When you miss that much time, it doesn’t come back as easily,” coach Will Muschamp said. “It’s come back very quickly for him. He can continue to help us in pass rush. He’s doing a good job for us at SAM linebacker. He’s an integral part of our special teams.”
Ball, a red-shirt sophomore, has played at linebacker every game this season and started twice. He has eight tackles and two fumble recoveries.
His future should be even brighter, Muschamp said. Because of the medical issue, Ball went 4-6 months without training and is playing this year at 6-foot-2, 222 pounds. For comparison, middle linebacker Jon Bostic is 20 pounds heavier.
“We’re gonna make him live in the weight room for about six months,” Muschamp said of Ball. “He’s a guy that’s gonna continue to develop. He’s got a great flexibility. He’s a very explosive athlete. I think he’s got a promising career in front of him.”
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