THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
NEW ORLEANS — Less than 24 hours after he resigned, Florida coach Urban Meyer is instead taking an indefinite leave of absence that opens the door for his return to the Gators.
A person familiar with the decision told The Associated Press on Sunday that Meyer has changed his mind. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because no announcement had been made by the school.
Meyer is to speak at a news conference in New Orleans on Sunday afternoon.
On Saturday night, Meyer said he was stepping down after five seasons as Gators coach because of health concerns.
The University of Florida student newspaper, The New York Times and ESPN.com first reported Meyer’s change of plans.
The person familiar with Meyer’s decision said the coach woke up Sunday morning, got around his players at a short practice on campus and realized he wasn’t quite ready to call it quits.
"There’s no guarantees here," the source said. "He could still walk away.
"He’s got some significant concerns about his health and his tank and his family. But instead of cutting the cord, he’s going to take a step back and see how he feels."
There was no immediate word on how Florida planned to handle coaching duties after the Sugar Bowl. But Florida officials surely know Meyer could decide to walk away this summer and leave the program with an awkward mess.
"That’s a chance he’s willing to take and one Florida is willing to take," the person said.
24 hours after resigning Meyer now taking leave
