GAINESVILLE — Florida veteran defensive tackle Caleb Banks’ push to become the anchor in the middle and a first-round NFL draft pick has hit a snag — the Gators expect it to be a minor one.

Banks is day-to-day with a lower-leg injury, sitting out Thursday’s practice a day after he wore a protective boot on his left foot at Heavener Football Center .

Meanwhile, Aaron Gates, another key defensive player, returned after sitting out Tuesday . The redshirt sophomore defensive back participated in some individual drills but soon joined athletic trainers, his left leg sporting a compression sleeve.

The Gators’ beleaguered defense experienced a midseason resurgence in 2024 , with Bank and Gates among those leading the way.

UF, ranked No. 15 in the preseason AP Top 25, allowed report

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