When Florida's preseason practices began, much of the talk centered around who would replace former WR/.RB Percy Harvin?

Freshman Andre Debose is supposed to be the answer, but a hamstring injury last spring has hampered him somewhat.

"I wish DeBose was a little further ahead,'' UF coach Urban Meyer said Monday. "His heart is in the right place, he's trying. That hamstring limited him a little bit in preparation for the summer. But he's certainly go the talent.''

Which brings the Gators right back to some familiar faces. It'll take two to replace Harvin, but Florida may have found them - at least for now.

"Right now (Jeff) Demps and Brandon James are fighting for it until Debose gets ready,'' Meyer said. "Brandon James and Demps right now will do the Harvin stuff.''

Don't let the 5-foot-7 frame on James fool you. Meyer said he's more prepared than ever to help the Gators.

"He had a great summer. The leadership, he was kind of the rallying guy when they went out and threw on their own, he was the guy that was in charge. Tim (Tebow) always respected Brandon, but he respects him even more the way he handled himself this summer.''

UF running backs coach Kenny Carter said James' athleticism is what makes him invaluable.

"He's not back at tailback, he's an athlete,'' Carter said. "He's going to play some in the slot, he's going to play in the backfield, he's going to do a little bit of everything. As many times as you can get him a touch, you're going to try to get him a touch.''