Florida will be without one of its most explosive offensive weapons Saturday after wide receiver Vernell Brown III was ruled out for the Gators’ rivalry matchup with Georgia.

Brown’s status changed to out on the SEC’s final availability report, ending hopes that the second-year receiver would return against the No. 3 Bulldogs. He had been listed as probable Wednesday and Thursday before being downgraded to questionable Friday.

The absence marks Brown’s fourth consecutive missed game since suffering a knee injury against Ole Miss on Sept. 26. He appeared to be nearing a return earlier in the week, but Gators Online reported that Brown missed two practices following a minor setback.

Brown was one of Florida’s most dynamic playmakers during its 4-0 start, catching 17 passes for 271 yards and two touchdowns. He also returned two punts for touchdowns, giving him four scores in his first four games.

His absence is particularly disappointing given the possibility of Florida finally having Brown, Dallas Wilson and Eric Singleton Jr. available together. The three receivers have rarely shared the field this season because of injuries.

Florida’s passing attack will once again have to operate without Brown as Aaron Philo returns to the starting lineup. Fellow wide receiver Bailey Stockton was listed as questionable Friday after being upgraded from doubtful earlier in the week.

Running back Duke Clark and linebacker Jaden Robinson were also ruled out Friday.

No. 20 Florida (5-2, 3-2 SEC) faces No. 3 Georgia (6-1, 4-1) at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC.

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