Today is the first day of Fall Camp for the vast majority of high schools around the state of Florida. What better way to kick it off than to start it out at the practice field where (arguably) the top player in the Sunshine State -- and possibly the country -- would be working out bright and early this morning. The Columbia Tigers of Lake City have a young and talented group of players headlined by the considerable talents of DT Timmy Jernigan (6-3, 285), who will play a huge role in defining the success of this ball club for the 2010 season.
I've been following Jernigan closely since last fall, and while he had a strong presence on the 2009 edition of the Tigers, you can tell that he is the face, heart, and soul of the 2010 squad. In work outs he bounced between providing an energy that is sorely needed during a summer day in North Florida, and coaching up the young guys who might allow Jernigan to get to the sideline for a play or two this coming season. He is equal parts mentor, motivator and class clown. In the few instances he was asked to demonstrate some technique or go up against an offensive lineman in blocking drills (and they weren't full contact by the way, as teams are not in full pads yet), Jernigan would routinely beat his man, scream so loud you could hear him in every corner of Columbia's expansive practice fields, and then give a little dance for good measure. If nothing else, Timmy Jernigan always lets you know he's around when he gets on the football field.
Afterwards, in talking to him, you can tell the recruiting process is starting to wear on him a bit. Decision day is moving closer (although he still expects to announce on National Signing Day, that could be subject to change, however), and teams are starting to turn up the heat a bit. Jernigan has been pretty consistent with his top group for a few months now, and he's narrowed it down to five teams, who will all receive official visits from him over the coming months. Alabama, Florida, Florida State, LSU and Michigan have all made the cut. Now, the hard part comes...who out of the five will land the state of Florida's big prizes for the 2011 recruiting class? Only one man really knows -- and Timmy Jernigan isn't showing his hand right now.
Other notes:
- I spoke with former Gators walk-on tight end Christopher Coleman this morning. Coleman, who was with the Gators from 2007-09, was hired to coach the offensive line for the Tigers in the spring, and he has a heck of a job in front of him. Columbia is basically starting from scratch up front, and will be employing at least four new starters up front in 2010. But from watching him work with his charges this morning, you can tell he really used the best of his time in Gainesville. Coleman is a Lake City native, and says this was a great opportunity for him because "I have to stay around (football)." Of course, I'm sure the Gators were happy to see him land this gig, seeing as they have a certain interest in a certain star player taking part in his final season for Columbia this fall...
- The other guy that really stands out aside from Jernigan on the practice field for Columbia is sophomore offensive lineman Laremy Tunsil (6-5, 280). Tunsil is being pressed into duty for the Tigers this fall at right tackle, and despite the fact he has a "long ways to go," in the eyes of Coleman, he cleary has a chance to be something special. Tunsil is still growing into his body, and he can lumber a bit when he runs, but he has the frame, and the athleticism to become a special offensive lineman one day. I don't know if his recruitment will mirror that of what Jernigan has experienced so far -- but it has a chance to do just that.
- Just ask head coach Craig Howard, this Timmy (Jernigan) has a chance to be just as good as the last Timmy (Tebow) he coached at the high school level...Fellow defensive line prospect Dequan Ivery (6-0, 300) is a player to watch in the Class of 2012. Although Ivery is a bit on the short side, he is a stout presence in the middle, and nearly as strong as Jernigan is, despite being a year behind him. He will receive plenty of D-I interest over the next year. Ivery is actually a cousin of Jernigan, and was actually driven to Florida's recent Friday Night Lights Camp by none other than Jernigan's father, Tim...Another name to keep an eye on at Columbia this year is wide receiver Adrian Hill (5-10, 180). Hill is fielding plenty of mid-major interest and will be a running and receiving threat for the Tigers this fall. With a lack of proven commodities at the skill positions, he figures to touch the ball a LOT in 2010. His interest should grow as he continues to perform strongly in the classroom this fall, and puts up the big numbers many expect of him this coming season.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Mike Bellamy, the Gators, and the number 5...
I was speaking to a pretty well-connected fellow in the world of recruiting recently. He made a very good point to me, and in light of the now apparent "wavering" of running back Mike Bellamy (more on that later), it makes more sense than ever.
When Chris Dunkley signed with the Gators back in February, he did so with the understanding he would be wearing the #5 this coming fall (a number assigned to Gators All-American cornerback Joe Haden in 2009). You can find various pictures with him posing in the #5 jersey he was expected to wear this fall on his Facebook page. So imagine my surprise when I was flipping through the fall roster released by the Florida SID several days ago and happened to notice that Dunkley had instead been assigned #27 -- a curious choice for a player expected to contribute at wide receiver this fall for the Gators.
Meanwhile, the #5, she is still sitting wide open and right there for the taking.
Don't get me wrong, Joe Haden was a great player for the Gators during his three years, as evidenced by his selection among the top 10 picks of the NFL Draft by Cleveland back in April. His presence will be missed in Gainesville. But he wasn't so overwhelming on the field that his number is going to be retired anytime soon. This isn't the same deal as #15 being left vacated for the time being. This is something very different altogether.
Back to Mike Bellamy, and that Clemson commitment he was reportedly so solid on...
In talking with a well-connected person in SW Florida, he told me even before Friday Night Lights that regardless of what Bellamy was saying, that the door was still cracked open just a bit. Regardless of how adamant Bellamy was about heading to Clemson, following in C.J. Spiller's footsteps, and being excited to run down the Hill for every Tigers home game, his recruitment is not and will not be finished for some time. I believed my source then, and his words are even more spot on now that Bellamy is reportedly looking at Florida State due to "depth chart issues" at Clemson. His recruitment is going to be a volatile one until he signs on the dotted line because that's just the way it's going to be. Everyone should sit down, grab some popcorn, and enjoy the show.
So, where does the #5 fit into all of this?
As I said earlier, Dunkley was expected to wear the number ever since he committed to the Gators back in January. Is wasn't some dealbreaker...it was just a matter of the fact that Dunkley liked the number, and it would be there for the taking if Haden left early for the pros (which he ended up doing). Then all of the sudden, sometime over the summer...something happened to convince the Gators to assign Dunkley #27 instead. By all accounts, Dunkley has worked hard since signing his letter of intent paperwork with Florida. He has added some necessary bulk to help him through the SEC grind, he has stayed out of trouble off-the-field, and other than the fact he has some diva-ish qualities not all that unlike many star wide receivers (Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens come to mind), he has done the things he needs to do to put himself in a position to play as a true freshman. But then when I think about it, there was the little matter of Mike Bellamy attending Friday Night Lights, even after being "solid" to Clemson. He has long been rumored to have a strong appreciation of the Gators and the spread offense. He just happens to wear...
You guess it -- the number 5. Conspiracy theory or not? You tell me...
When Chris Dunkley signed with the Gators back in February, he did so with the understanding he would be wearing the #5 this coming fall (a number assigned to Gators All-American cornerback Joe Haden in 2009). You can find various pictures with him posing in the #5 jersey he was expected to wear this fall on his Facebook page. So imagine my surprise when I was flipping through the fall roster released by the Florida SID several days ago and happened to notice that Dunkley had instead been assigned #27 -- a curious choice for a player expected to contribute at wide receiver this fall for the Gators.
Meanwhile, the #5, she is still sitting wide open and right there for the taking.
Don't get me wrong, Joe Haden was a great player for the Gators during his three years, as evidenced by his selection among the top 10 picks of the NFL Draft by Cleveland back in April. His presence will be missed in Gainesville. But he wasn't so overwhelming on the field that his number is going to be retired anytime soon. This isn't the same deal as #15 being left vacated for the time being. This is something very different altogether.
Back to Mike Bellamy, and that Clemson commitment he was reportedly so solid on...
In talking with a well-connected person in SW Florida, he told me even before Friday Night Lights that regardless of what Bellamy was saying, that the door was still cracked open just a bit. Regardless of how adamant Bellamy was about heading to Clemson, following in C.J. Spiller's footsteps, and being excited to run down the Hill for every Tigers home game, his recruitment is not and will not be finished for some time. I believed my source then, and his words are even more spot on now that Bellamy is reportedly looking at Florida State due to "depth chart issues" at Clemson. His recruitment is going to be a volatile one until he signs on the dotted line because that's just the way it's going to be. Everyone should sit down, grab some popcorn, and enjoy the show.
So, where does the #5 fit into all of this?
As I said earlier, Dunkley was expected to wear the number ever since he committed to the Gators back in January. Is wasn't some dealbreaker...it was just a matter of the fact that Dunkley liked the number, and it would be there for the taking if Haden left early for the pros (which he ended up doing). Then all of the sudden, sometime over the summer...something happened to convince the Gators to assign Dunkley #27 instead. By all accounts, Dunkley has worked hard since signing his letter of intent paperwork with Florida. He has added some necessary bulk to help him through the SEC grind, he has stayed out of trouble off-the-field, and other than the fact he has some diva-ish qualities not all that unlike many star wide receivers (Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens come to mind), he has done the things he needs to do to put himself in a position to play as a true freshman. But then when I think about it, there was the little matter of Mike Bellamy attending Friday Night Lights, even after being "solid" to Clemson. He has long been rumored to have a strong appreciation of the Gators and the spread offense. He just happens to wear...
You guess it -- the number 5. Conspiracy theory or not? You tell me...
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Five Gators with a case for the NFL Hall of Fame...
Last night I started doing a lot of reading and research into the NFL Hall of Fame, and different players with stellar careers who are not currently enshrined in Canton. It really is amazing to see how subjective the voters have been over the years as to who they let in and who they keep out. That said, this post won't stray too far off the topic at hand. Here are five former Gators with a case for one day joining Jack Youngblood and Emmitt Smith in one of the most hallowed spaces in all of football.
1. LT Lomas Brown (1981-84 UF, played with five teams over 18 NFL seasons)
One of the great left tackles in NFL history, Lomas Brown first came to fame as the 6-foot-4, 280-pound cornerstone of the famed "Great Wall of Florida" offensive line (which produced an additional pair of NFL lineman in Crawford Ker and Jeff Zimmerman) in the early 1980's. Brown was selected with the 6th overall pick of the 1985 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions, and he would see the bulk of his success as a professional over 11 seasons in the Motor City. Brown missed only eight starts during his time in Detroit, and would be selected to six Pro Bowls and was a consensus first-team All-Pro once (1995, his final season in Detroit), as the Lions developed into one of the top offensive powerhouses in the league. After leaving the Lions, Brown would make the Pro Bowl once more with Arizona (1996), and later played for the Browns and Giants before winning the Super Bowl as a back-up offensive lineman for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2002, his final season as a pro. His 257 career starts are tied for seventh all-time in NFL history -- the only offensive lineman who found himself in the starting lineup more being the great Bruce Matthews. Of the six players to have started more NFL games than Brown, only one (Jim Marshall) is not currently in the NFL Hall of Fame.
2. OLB Wilber Marshall (1980-83, UF, played with five teams over 12 NFL seasons)
Marshall was one of the players who set forth the "new age" of what an outside linebacker should be like. Mobile, agile and hostile, standing 6-foot-1 and weighing 230 pounds Marshall was originally recruited out of high school to play tight end for the Gators, but that would only last a season until Florida head coach Charley Pell convinced Marshall to switch to the weakside linebacker position on defense. Marshall would terrorize defenses over the course of his college career (the most notable example being a 14-tackle, 4-sack performance in a 17-9 upset win over USC in 1982) and would go on to do much of the same in his professional career as well. Selected with the 11th overall pick of the 1984 NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears, Marshall would quickly develop into a key component of Buddy Ryan's famed "46" defense, which also featured the likes of Mike Singeltary and Dan Hampton (both in the Hall of Fame) as well as Richard Dent and Steve "Mongo" McMichael (both of whom are deserving of bids as well). Marshall would win a Super Bowl in 1985 with the Bears, and eventually move on to the Redskins after four seasons of service in Chicago. Marshall would experience some of his greatest individual success in Washington, recording 24.5 sacks and going over 100 tackles in all five of his seasons with the Redskins. He would add another Super Bowl ring in 1991 as Washington marched to their third World championship under Joe Gibbs. Following perhaps his greatest individual season in 1992 (138 total tackles, six sacks, three forced fumbles and two interceptions), where he was named to the Pro Bowl and garnered first team All-Pro honors, Marshall left Washington to sign with the Houston Oilers. However, injuries caught up with him in Texas, and Marshall's final three seasons (one-year stints with the Oilers, Cardinals and Jets) were relatively quiet. He retired from football after the 1995 season. However, Marshall left quite an impact across the league, having recorded over 1,000 tackles, 45 sacks, 23 interceptions, and 24 forced fumbles during his 12 seasons. Those numbers are right about on par with that of Chiefs great Willie Lanier, who was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 1986. Marshall is a player whose abilities transcend time. He is one of just a handful of members of the exclusive career 20 sack/20 interception club.
3. FB Rick Casares (1951-53 UF, played with three teams over 11 NFL seasons)
Here is Florida's one entry for the Senior Committee to consider. A prep star in three sports (football, basketball and track & field) at Jefferson High School in Tampa. Casares is often thrown in the short list of players that pro scouts have described as possessing the rare combination of tools that would have allowed the player to make a prep-to-pros jump (along with name such as Earl Campbell, Herschel Walker, Andre Carter, Adrian Peterson and a few others). The college career of Casares was actually cut short due to his being drafted by the U.S. Army in 1953 (his junior year at Florida). A second-round pick (18th overall) of the 1954 NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears, Casares would join the team in 1955 after serving a two-year military commitment. At 6-foot-2, and 225 pounds, Casares immediately became a bulldozing threat for the Bears coming out of the backfield. He led the league in rushing yards per attempt (5.4) as a rookie in 1955. The following year, Casares would lead the NFL in rushing with 1126 yards and 12 touchdowns on 236 carries as the Bears advanced to the 1956 NFL Championship, where they were soundly trounced by the New York Giants by a score of 47-7. Casares would be named to the Pro Bowl in each of his first five years with the Bears and was given a consensus first team All-Pro nod once (1956) before injuries relegated him to primarily blocking duties in the backfield. He would help lead the Bears to the 1963 NFL Championship before moving on to play a season in Washington (1965) and finally Miami (1966) where he would end his career. His 5,797 career rushing yards still rank 79th all-time, all these years later. His 5,657 rushing yards with the Bears still rank third in franchise history, behind Walter Payton and another Florida Gators product in Neal Anderson (and ahead of Gale Sayers, a Hall-of-Famer who spent his entire career in Chicago, I might add). With names such as Ken Stabler, Jerry Kramer, Jim Marshall, Ray Guy, and others to consider as well, Casares would be a hard sell to the Senior Committee. But you can make a legitimate case for his Hall induction.
4. DE-DT Kevin Carter (1991-94 UF, played with four teams over 14 NFL seasons)
This one is easily the weakest case of all. Carter did the bulk of his damage as a pro in St. Louis. He recorded 17 sacks with the Rams in 1999, earned first team All-Pro honors and made the Pro Bowl as the franchise won it's first Super Bowl Title. Drafted as the sixth overall pick of the 1995 NFL Draft by the Rams, Carter would record 62.5 sacks over six seasons with the team. He would move on to Tennessee for a big pay day in 2001, and while he was named to his second Pro Bowl in 2002 (a season where he recorded 10 sacks), his production generally tailed off as he was utilized in a number of roles across the defensive line under Jeff Fisher in Nashville. Carter would go on to play two seasons in Miami (2005-06) and Tampa Bay (2007-08) where he would finish his career crossing the 100-sack plateau. His 104.5 sacks rank 19th all time. At 6-foot-5, 290 pounds, Carter was a versatile player who could get after the quarterback, but also had the size and ability to play strong against the run, and move inside to play tackle if necessary. While the first stanza of his career was superb, the final two suggest his body of work was simply great, and not quite at the level for which the Hall of Fame requires for induction.
5. RB Fred Taylor (1994-97 UF, has played for two teams over 12 NFL seasons)**
**Here is the one exception to the rule, as Taylor is the lone player on this list still active in the NFL.
Taylor is set to play his second season for the New England Patriots this fall. The ninth overall selection of the 1998 NFL Draft, Taylor is one of the great specimens at the running back position in football history. In terms of physical talents, Taylor is on the same level as greats such as Jim Brown (who has noted his appreciation for Taylor's abilities in the past), Herschel Walker, and Bo Jackson in that he combines a massive frame (listed at 6-foot-1, 230 pounds) with a sprinter's speed. The one thing holding Taylor back is that he has always been overlooked for much of his career, however. In college, he split time in the Florida backfield, and was not leaned on heavily as a feature back until the second half of his senior season with the Gators. In Jacksonville, his abilities were routinely ignored, and despite an injury-marred tenure with the Jaguars, he still posted seven seasons of 1,000 yards or more (despite playing in just 140 of a possible 176 games with the Jags). Taylor has been named to just one Pro Bowl in his 12 seasons (2007). However, he stands just 460 rushing yards away from 12,000 for his career (an attainable number this season if he can stay healthy). Only 14 backs have passed that mystical plateau. Nine of them currently have a bust in Canton, three others (Curtis Martin, Jerome Bettis and Marshall Faulk) become eligible for enshrinement next year, and two more (LaDanian Tomlinson and Edgerrin James) are still considered active, although James is not currently on an NFL roster. In all likelihood, all 14 of the backs with 12,000+ career yards will one day have a presence in Canton. If Taylor gets to that number, would be the first denied entrance? It's certainly possible. He has never been overly media friendly, which probably not only kept him out of a couple of Pro Bowls, but will hurt him going forward with the Hall as well. However, his career numbers certainly deserve strong consideration for the Hall of Fame, that much is not in question. Whether he finds himself one day in Canton is another matter entirely, however.
1. LT Lomas Brown (1981-84 UF, played with five teams over 18 NFL seasons)
One of the great left tackles in NFL history, Lomas Brown first came to fame as the 6-foot-4, 280-pound cornerstone of the famed "Great Wall of Florida" offensive line (which produced an additional pair of NFL lineman in Crawford Ker and Jeff Zimmerman) in the early 1980's. Brown was selected with the 6th overall pick of the 1985 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions, and he would see the bulk of his success as a professional over 11 seasons in the Motor City. Brown missed only eight starts during his time in Detroit, and would be selected to six Pro Bowls and was a consensus first-team All-Pro once (1995, his final season in Detroit), as the Lions developed into one of the top offensive powerhouses in the league. After leaving the Lions, Brown would make the Pro Bowl once more with Arizona (1996), and later played for the Browns and Giants before winning the Super Bowl as a back-up offensive lineman for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2002, his final season as a pro. His 257 career starts are tied for seventh all-time in NFL history -- the only offensive lineman who found himself in the starting lineup more being the great Bruce Matthews. Of the six players to have started more NFL games than Brown, only one (Jim Marshall) is not currently in the NFL Hall of Fame.
2. OLB Wilber Marshall (1980-83, UF, played with five teams over 12 NFL seasons)
Marshall was one of the players who set forth the "new age" of what an outside linebacker should be like. Mobile, agile and hostile, standing 6-foot-1 and weighing 230 pounds Marshall was originally recruited out of high school to play tight end for the Gators, but that would only last a season until Florida head coach Charley Pell convinced Marshall to switch to the weakside linebacker position on defense. Marshall would terrorize defenses over the course of his college career (the most notable example being a 14-tackle, 4-sack performance in a 17-9 upset win over USC in 1982) and would go on to do much of the same in his professional career as well. Selected with the 11th overall pick of the 1984 NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears, Marshall would quickly develop into a key component of Buddy Ryan's famed "46" defense, which also featured the likes of Mike Singeltary and Dan Hampton (both in the Hall of Fame) as well as Richard Dent and Steve "Mongo" McMichael (both of whom are deserving of bids as well). Marshall would win a Super Bowl in 1985 with the Bears, and eventually move on to the Redskins after four seasons of service in Chicago. Marshall would experience some of his greatest individual success in Washington, recording 24.5 sacks and going over 100 tackles in all five of his seasons with the Redskins. He would add another Super Bowl ring in 1991 as Washington marched to their third World championship under Joe Gibbs. Following perhaps his greatest individual season in 1992 (138 total tackles, six sacks, three forced fumbles and two interceptions), where he was named to the Pro Bowl and garnered first team All-Pro honors, Marshall left Washington to sign with the Houston Oilers. However, injuries caught up with him in Texas, and Marshall's final three seasons (one-year stints with the Oilers, Cardinals and Jets) were relatively quiet. He retired from football after the 1995 season. However, Marshall left quite an impact across the league, having recorded over 1,000 tackles, 45 sacks, 23 interceptions, and 24 forced fumbles during his 12 seasons. Those numbers are right about on par with that of Chiefs great Willie Lanier, who was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 1986. Marshall is a player whose abilities transcend time. He is one of just a handful of members of the exclusive career 20 sack/20 interception club.
3. FB Rick Casares (1951-53 UF, played with three teams over 11 NFL seasons)
Here is Florida's one entry for the Senior Committee to consider. A prep star in three sports (football, basketball and track & field) at Jefferson High School in Tampa. Casares is often thrown in the short list of players that pro scouts have described as possessing the rare combination of tools that would have allowed the player to make a prep-to-pros jump (along with name such as Earl Campbell, Herschel Walker, Andre Carter, Adrian Peterson and a few others). The college career of Casares was actually cut short due to his being drafted by the U.S. Army in 1953 (his junior year at Florida). A second-round pick (18th overall) of the 1954 NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears, Casares would join the team in 1955 after serving a two-year military commitment. At 6-foot-2, and 225 pounds, Casares immediately became a bulldozing threat for the Bears coming out of the backfield. He led the league in rushing yards per attempt (5.4) as a rookie in 1955. The following year, Casares would lead the NFL in rushing with 1126 yards and 12 touchdowns on 236 carries as the Bears advanced to the 1956 NFL Championship, where they were soundly trounced by the New York Giants by a score of 47-7. Casares would be named to the Pro Bowl in each of his first five years with the Bears and was given a consensus first team All-Pro nod once (1956) before injuries relegated him to primarily blocking duties in the backfield. He would help lead the Bears to the 1963 NFL Championship before moving on to play a season in Washington (1965) and finally Miami (1966) where he would end his career. His 5,797 career rushing yards still rank 79th all-time, all these years later. His 5,657 rushing yards with the Bears still rank third in franchise history, behind Walter Payton and another Florida Gators product in Neal Anderson (and ahead of Gale Sayers, a Hall-of-Famer who spent his entire career in Chicago, I might add). With names such as Ken Stabler, Jerry Kramer, Jim Marshall, Ray Guy, and others to consider as well, Casares would be a hard sell to the Senior Committee. But you can make a legitimate case for his Hall induction.
4. DE-DT Kevin Carter (1991-94 UF, played with four teams over 14 NFL seasons)
This one is easily the weakest case of all. Carter did the bulk of his damage as a pro in St. Louis. He recorded 17 sacks with the Rams in 1999, earned first team All-Pro honors and made the Pro Bowl as the franchise won it's first Super Bowl Title. Drafted as the sixth overall pick of the 1995 NFL Draft by the Rams, Carter would record 62.5 sacks over six seasons with the team. He would move on to Tennessee for a big pay day in 2001, and while he was named to his second Pro Bowl in 2002 (a season where he recorded 10 sacks), his production generally tailed off as he was utilized in a number of roles across the defensive line under Jeff Fisher in Nashville. Carter would go on to play two seasons in Miami (2005-06) and Tampa Bay (2007-08) where he would finish his career crossing the 100-sack plateau. His 104.5 sacks rank 19th all time. At 6-foot-5, 290 pounds, Carter was a versatile player who could get after the quarterback, but also had the size and ability to play strong against the run, and move inside to play tackle if necessary. While the first stanza of his career was superb, the final two suggest his body of work was simply great, and not quite at the level for which the Hall of Fame requires for induction.
5. RB Fred Taylor (1994-97 UF, has played for two teams over 12 NFL seasons)**
**Here is the one exception to the rule, as Taylor is the lone player on this list still active in the NFL.
Taylor is set to play his second season for the New England Patriots this fall. The ninth overall selection of the 1998 NFL Draft, Taylor is one of the great specimens at the running back position in football history. In terms of physical talents, Taylor is on the same level as greats such as Jim Brown (who has noted his appreciation for Taylor's abilities in the past), Herschel Walker, and Bo Jackson in that he combines a massive frame (listed at 6-foot-1, 230 pounds) with a sprinter's speed. The one thing holding Taylor back is that he has always been overlooked for much of his career, however. In college, he split time in the Florida backfield, and was not leaned on heavily as a feature back until the second half of his senior season with the Gators. In Jacksonville, his abilities were routinely ignored, and despite an injury-marred tenure with the Jaguars, he still posted seven seasons of 1,000 yards or more (despite playing in just 140 of a possible 176 games with the Jags). Taylor has been named to just one Pro Bowl in his 12 seasons (2007). However, he stands just 460 rushing yards away from 12,000 for his career (an attainable number this season if he can stay healthy). Only 14 backs have passed that mystical plateau. Nine of them currently have a bust in Canton, three others (Curtis Martin, Jerome Bettis and Marshall Faulk) become eligible for enshrinement next year, and two more (LaDanian Tomlinson and Edgerrin James) are still considered active, although James is not currently on an NFL roster. In all likelihood, all 14 of the backs with 12,000+ career yards will one day have a presence in Canton. If Taylor gets to that number, would be the first denied entrance? It's certainly possible. He has never been overly media friendly, which probably not only kept him out of a couple of Pro Bowls, but will hurt him going forward with the Hall as well. However, his career numbers certainly deserve strong consideration for the Hall of Fame, that much is not in question. Whether he finds himself one day in Canton is another matter entirely, however.
Friday, August 6, 2010
Recruiting News & Notes
Hear are some storylines to keep an eye on as the week comes to an end. High school football practices start across the state of Florida starting next Monday (August 9th)...
- I confirmed this afternoon that Under Armour All-American CB Nick Waisome (5-10, 168, Groveland, Fla./South Lake) has pegged August 18th as his decision date. He has engaged in talks these past several days to have his announcement broadcast on ESPNU. In regards to who he will select -- the Gators have been considered the favorite for some time, but I have heard that Florida State made up some major ground during a trip Waisome took to Tallahassee last month. Georgia has also been a major factor in his recruitment, but seemed to fade over the summer (I was told the Bulldogs were out in front at one point during the spring). LSU and South Carolina comprise his other two finalists. Realistically, however, this is a battle between the two in-state rivals from the state of Sunshine for the commitment of Waisome. We will know in just under two weeks who the winner is...
- The Gators had a star-studded group attend their first practices of fall camp on Thursday. Two prospects in particular -- OL/DL Chase Hounshell (6-5, 265, Kirtland, Ohio/Lake Catholic) and RB Savon Huggins (5-11, 200, Jersey City, N.J./St. Peter's Prep) -- made long treks down to Florida to check out what The Swamp has to offer. It appears Hounshell is being targeted as a potential tackle candidate on the offensive line. Meanwhile, Huggins is a highly-regarded running back who could give Florida another every-down type in the backfield to go along with true freshman Mack Brown. A pair of Florida commitments, quarterback Jeff Driskel (6-4, 225, Oviedo, Fla./Hagerty) and fullback Hunter Joyer (5-11, 245, Tampa, Fla./Tampa Catholic) also were in attendance for the first day of fall workouts.
- As I posted on Twitter on Wednesday, defensive back Chris "Juice" Johnson (5-9, 205, Ocala, Fla./Trinity Catholic) is very close to making a commitment to the Gators public. At a media function for Marion County high school football teams, held at the Florida State Fire College on Wednesday, Johnson sported a blue Florida baseball hat and said "you could basically say I'm committed right now," of his current intentions as to what he will do for a college decision. Right now, it seems only a couple of points on the ACT are keeping Juice from going forward with that commitment. Expect it to happen in the near future, however.
- I think you really have to commend the efforts of Notre Dame wide receivers coach Tony Alford, and his imprint on the state of Florida this year. Alford has secured commitments from offensive lineman Jordan Prestwood (6-6, 275, Plant City/Plant City), defensive end/linebacker Clay Burton (6-3, 235, Nokomis/Venice) and defensive lineman Aaron Lynch (6-6, 265, Cape Coral/Island Coast). Burton had interest from around the Southeast, with offers from Clemson, Florida State, Georgia Tech, LSU and Tennessee among others. The younger brother of Florida Gators true freshman quarterback Trey Burton, Clay settled in at defensive end last fall after bouncing between the offense (as a tight end) and defense as a sophomore to record 13 sacks in 2009. Prestwood is a tight end who will likely make the transition to offensive tackle in college. He had offers from Florida and Florida State along with many others before deciding on the Fighting Irish. The real prize of this group is Lynch, who is a massive prospect with tons of upside. He recorded 16 sacks last year at Island Coast, and would be a great fit at defensive end in Notre Dame's 3-4 scheme. He could also potentially grow into an offensive lineman, however. He has the frame to easily put on another 30-40 pounds without any problems, and he could be extremely effective as a left tackle on the next level. In any case, the efforts of Alford to grab this trio out of Florida (along with defensive end Anthony Rabasa, a native of Miami, who was recruited by defensive line coach Mike Elston) have given Notre Dame a strong presence in the Sunshine State this year.
Why does this get mention here, you ask? Because Alford was reportedly the first choice of Florida head coach Urban Meyer to replace departed assistant Kenny Carter, who followed Charlie Strong to Louisville. It seems Meyer had a good read on Alford's talents as a recruiter if those reports were in fact true.
- I keep getting questions on the recruitment of RB/LB James Wilder (6-2, 220, Tampa, Fla./Plant), and to be perfectly honest, I don't know what to think in regards as to what he will do anymore. Florida State clearly made a big push on his recent weekend stay in July, that much is clear. But the Seminoles were a bit late to the party, which makes me wonder if the positive post-visit vibes will wear off a bit as Wilder starts moving towards a decision. I maintain that UGA is a strong presence in this battle as they are they seem to be the best fit for his talents both on offense (Mark Richt has traditionally employed a Pro-Set base for his offenses since arriving in Athens in 2001) and defense (the 3-4 that new defensive coordinator Todd Grantham has installed would allow Wilder to feature his talents as a superb pass-rusher out of the outside linebacker position). Florida has been the longest, most consistent, and most steady presence in the recruitment of Wilder. If it's a matter of which staff have built the best relationship with the talented prospect, I think it would be hard to argue anyone has Urban Meyer and Dan McCarney beat in that aspect.
So now, the question remains -- when does Wilder announce? It could happen this month, possibly at the nationally televised kickoff classic (preseason) game between Plant and Manatee High School of Bradenton (which features top RB prospect Mike Blakely, also a target of the Gators). Or perhaps Wilder will wait until after the season. In any case, his recruitment should continue to provide as much speculation around it as any in the country until that final decision is handed in.
- I confirmed this afternoon that Under Armour All-American CB Nick Waisome (5-10, 168, Groveland, Fla./South Lake) has pegged August 18th as his decision date. He has engaged in talks these past several days to have his announcement broadcast on ESPNU. In regards to who he will select -- the Gators have been considered the favorite for some time, but I have heard that Florida State made up some major ground during a trip Waisome took to Tallahassee last month. Georgia has also been a major factor in his recruitment, but seemed to fade over the summer (I was told the Bulldogs were out in front at one point during the spring). LSU and South Carolina comprise his other two finalists. Realistically, however, this is a battle between the two in-state rivals from the state of Sunshine for the commitment of Waisome. We will know in just under two weeks who the winner is...
- The Gators had a star-studded group attend their first practices of fall camp on Thursday. Two prospects in particular -- OL/DL Chase Hounshell (6-5, 265, Kirtland, Ohio/Lake Catholic) and RB Savon Huggins (5-11, 200, Jersey City, N.J./St. Peter's Prep) -- made long treks down to Florida to check out what The Swamp has to offer. It appears Hounshell is being targeted as a potential tackle candidate on the offensive line. Meanwhile, Huggins is a highly-regarded running back who could give Florida another every-down type in the backfield to go along with true freshman Mack Brown. A pair of Florida commitments, quarterback Jeff Driskel (6-4, 225, Oviedo, Fla./Hagerty) and fullback Hunter Joyer (5-11, 245, Tampa, Fla./Tampa Catholic) also were in attendance for the first day of fall workouts.
- As I posted on Twitter on Wednesday, defensive back Chris "Juice" Johnson (5-9, 205, Ocala, Fla./Trinity Catholic) is very close to making a commitment to the Gators public. At a media function for Marion County high school football teams, held at the Florida State Fire College on Wednesday, Johnson sported a blue Florida baseball hat and said "you could basically say I'm committed right now," of his current intentions as to what he will do for a college decision. Right now, it seems only a couple of points on the ACT are keeping Juice from going forward with that commitment. Expect it to happen in the near future, however.
- I think you really have to commend the efforts of Notre Dame wide receivers coach Tony Alford, and his imprint on the state of Florida this year. Alford has secured commitments from offensive lineman Jordan Prestwood (6-6, 275, Plant City/Plant City), defensive end/linebacker Clay Burton (6-3, 235, Nokomis/Venice) and defensive lineman Aaron Lynch (6-6, 265, Cape Coral/Island Coast). Burton had interest from around the Southeast, with offers from Clemson, Florida State, Georgia Tech, LSU and Tennessee among others. The younger brother of Florida Gators true freshman quarterback Trey Burton, Clay settled in at defensive end last fall after bouncing between the offense (as a tight end) and defense as a sophomore to record 13 sacks in 2009. Prestwood is a tight end who will likely make the transition to offensive tackle in college. He had offers from Florida and Florida State along with many others before deciding on the Fighting Irish. The real prize of this group is Lynch, who is a massive prospect with tons of upside. He recorded 16 sacks last year at Island Coast, and would be a great fit at defensive end in Notre Dame's 3-4 scheme. He could also potentially grow into an offensive lineman, however. He has the frame to easily put on another 30-40 pounds without any problems, and he could be extremely effective as a left tackle on the next level. In any case, the efforts of Alford to grab this trio out of Florida (along with defensive end Anthony Rabasa, a native of Miami, who was recruited by defensive line coach Mike Elston) have given Notre Dame a strong presence in the Sunshine State this year.
Why does this get mention here, you ask? Because Alford was reportedly the first choice of Florida head coach Urban Meyer to replace departed assistant Kenny Carter, who followed Charlie Strong to Louisville. It seems Meyer had a good read on Alford's talents as a recruiter if those reports were in fact true.
- I keep getting questions on the recruitment of RB/LB James Wilder (6-2, 220, Tampa, Fla./Plant), and to be perfectly honest, I don't know what to think in regards as to what he will do anymore. Florida State clearly made a big push on his recent weekend stay in July, that much is clear. But the Seminoles were a bit late to the party, which makes me wonder if the positive post-visit vibes will wear off a bit as Wilder starts moving towards a decision. I maintain that UGA is a strong presence in this battle as they are they seem to be the best fit for his talents both on offense (Mark Richt has traditionally employed a Pro-Set base for his offenses since arriving in Athens in 2001) and defense (the 3-4 that new defensive coordinator Todd Grantham has installed would allow Wilder to feature his talents as a superb pass-rusher out of the outside linebacker position). Florida has been the longest, most consistent, and most steady presence in the recruitment of Wilder. If it's a matter of which staff have built the best relationship with the talented prospect, I think it would be hard to argue anyone has Urban Meyer and Dan McCarney beat in that aspect.
So now, the question remains -- when does Wilder announce? It could happen this month, possibly at the nationally televised kickoff classic (preseason) game between Plant and Manatee High School of Bradenton (which features top RB prospect Mike Blakely, also a target of the Gators). Or perhaps Wilder will wait until after the season. In any case, his recruitment should continue to provide as much speculation around it as any in the country until that final decision is handed in.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Where the Gators stand: Linebacker
Last week, we started a position-by-position analysis as to where Florida currently stands in regards to the Class of 2011, and what needs still have to be met across the board. After wrapping up the offense, the defense is now on tap as to where Florida currently stands on the recruiting trail. Today, we focus on the linebackers...
Current Florida depth chart:
WILL
40 - Brandon Hicks (6-2, 228, Sr.)
52 - Jon Bostic (6-1, 238, So.)
49 - Darrin Kitchens (6-2, 218, Fr.)
MIKE
43 - Jelani Jenkins (6-0, 223, R-Fr.)
26 - Lorenzo Edwards (6-1, 240, Sr.)
51 - Michael Taylor (5-11, 218, Fr.)
23 - Chris Martin (6-4, 240, Fr.)**
SAM
16 - A.J. Jones (6-1, 226, R-Sr.)
13 - Dee Finley (6-2, 222, S0.)
48 - Neiron Ball (6-2, 225, Fr.)
25 - Gideon Ajagbe (6-2, 212, Fr.)
**Martin must redshirt his freshman season after transferring from Cal, where he enrolled in summer courses.
Committed to Florida for 2011:
Ryan Shazier (6-2, 205, Plantation, Fla./Plantation)
Top of the board:
Stephone Anthony (6-3, 224, Wadesboro, N.C./Anson)
Curtis Grant (6-3, 230, Richmond, Va./Hermitage)
Tony Steward (6-1, 225, St. Augustine, Fla./Menendez)
Lamar Dawson (6-2, 235, Danville, Ky./Boyle County)
A.J. Johnson (6-3, 235, Gainesville, Ga./Gainesville)
Others to watch:
Kent Turene (6-2, 230, Lauderdale Lakes, Fla./Boyd Anderson) - Committed to USC
Norkethius Otis (6-3, 205, Gastonia, N.C./Ashbrook)
Dexter Staley (6-2, 225, Williston, S.C./Williston-Elko)
Graham Stewart (6-1, 220, Middletown, Conn./Xavier)
Lateek Townsend (6-2, 205, Bennettsville, S.C./Marlboro County)
Jack Tabb (6-3, 235, Red Bank, N.J./Red Bank Catholic)
Jason Gibson (6-3, 210, Gardena, Calif./Junipero Serra)
Anthony Harrell (6-1, 220, Tampa, Fla./Jesuit)
Gionni Paul (6-0, 220 Lakeland, Fla./Kathleen)
Miles Pace (6-1, 240, Miami, Fla./Central)
Anthony Wallace (6-0, 220, Dallas, Tex./Skyline)
Analysis: The transfer of Brendan Beal in the offseason cut into the depth for Florida at linebacker just a bit. However, this is still an extremely talented and fast (albeit young) group at the position. The biggest issue with this bunch is that there simply isn't a lot of leadership. Who will make the line calls? The two players who could do that over the last two years (Brandon Spikes and Ryan Stamper) are both gone. That will be the biggest thing assistant coach D.J. Durkin looks to work on in fall camp. He knows he has an athletic bunch that can run to the football. However, they need to be able to get the defense set, and they need to be able to read and diagnose opposing offenses, and as the spring game showed, the linebackers have a long way to go to get to that point.
Looking ahead, the Gators would clearly like to add some size to this group. Adding a player (or two) who can project in the middle is a key goal. Curtis Grant tops the list of players who can fill that role in the 2011 class. Lamar Dawson is high on the board as well, in addition to USC commitment Kent Turene and Georgia product A.J. Johnson (who could ultimately project as a defensive end in college as well).
On the outside, Florida has already added a superb athlete in Ryan Shazier, who will have to make the transition from defensive end to linebacker on the next level. Perhaps the top linebacker on the board is Stephone Anthony, who has the athleticism to play on the outside, but the size to be a factor in the middle as well. His versatility is extremely intriguing. Tony Steward is considered one of the top linebacker prospects in the entire country, and he resides just an hour up the road from Gainesville in St. Augustine. Currently, he appears to be leaning more towards Florida State or Clemson, however. Norkethius Otis is a hybrid linebacker/defensive end who has the athleticism to contribute in a number of ways at the next level.
Three names to keep a close eye on down the stretch:
- Graham Stewart visited Gainesville twice this summer, and tested extremely well. He is a native of Connecticut, and the Gators have been quite active in the Nutmeg State over the past few years due to the presence of Steve Addazio (a native of the region) on the staff.
- You could call him the "poor man's James Wilder" of this class. Dexter Staley is a two-way star who could be an impact linebacker or big back on the next level a year for now. He has had some academic issues to push through, but the Gators are still a factor in his recruitment. If Florida does not land James Wilder, Staley could be the guy the Gators look to next to play on either side of the ball at the next level.
- The son of former UF and NFL linebacker James Harrell, look out for Tampa native Anthony Harrell. He has a strong interest in the Gators, and an offer down the road (no matter how late) would likely result in Harrell taking a really long look at spending his college years in Gainesville.
In some circles, the Gators are considered the favorite for both Anthony and Grant, which would be a home-run for linebackers coach D.J. Durkin if he can pull it off. Adding another option, such as Dawson, Turene, Johnson, or one of the many other options on the board would only make this group that much better heading into 2011.
Current Florida depth chart:
WILL
40 - Brandon Hicks (6-2, 228, Sr.)
52 - Jon Bostic (6-1, 238, So.)
49 - Darrin Kitchens (6-2, 218, Fr.)
MIKE
43 - Jelani Jenkins (6-0, 223, R-Fr.)
26 - Lorenzo Edwards (6-1, 240, Sr.)
51 - Michael Taylor (5-11, 218, Fr.)
23 - Chris Martin (6-4, 240, Fr.)**
SAM
16 - A.J. Jones (6-1, 226, R-Sr.)
13 - Dee Finley (6-2, 222, S0.)
48 - Neiron Ball (6-2, 225, Fr.)
25 - Gideon Ajagbe (6-2, 212, Fr.)
**Martin must redshirt his freshman season after transferring from Cal, where he enrolled in summer courses.
Committed to Florida for 2011:
Ryan Shazier (6-2, 205, Plantation, Fla./Plantation)
Top of the board:
Stephone Anthony (6-3, 224, Wadesboro, N.C./Anson)
Curtis Grant (6-3, 230, Richmond, Va./Hermitage)
Tony Steward (6-1, 225, St. Augustine, Fla./Menendez)
Lamar Dawson (6-2, 235, Danville, Ky./Boyle County)
A.J. Johnson (6-3, 235, Gainesville, Ga./Gainesville)
Others to watch:
Kent Turene (6-2, 230, Lauderdale Lakes, Fla./Boyd Anderson) - Committed to USC
Norkethius Otis (6-3, 205, Gastonia, N.C./Ashbrook)
Dexter Staley (6-2, 225, Williston, S.C./Williston-Elko)
Graham Stewart (6-1, 220, Middletown, Conn./Xavier)
Lateek Townsend (6-2, 205, Bennettsville, S.C./Marlboro County)
Jack Tabb (6-3, 235, Red Bank, N.J./Red Bank Catholic)
Jason Gibson (6-3, 210, Gardena, Calif./Junipero Serra)
Anthony Harrell (6-1, 220, Tampa, Fla./Jesuit)
Gionni Paul (6-0, 220 Lakeland, Fla./Kathleen)
Miles Pace (6-1, 240, Miami, Fla./Central)
Anthony Wallace (6-0, 220, Dallas, Tex./Skyline)
Analysis: The transfer of Brendan Beal in the offseason cut into the depth for Florida at linebacker just a bit. However, this is still an extremely talented and fast (albeit young) group at the position. The biggest issue with this bunch is that there simply isn't a lot of leadership. Who will make the line calls? The two players who could do that over the last two years (Brandon Spikes and Ryan Stamper) are both gone. That will be the biggest thing assistant coach D.J. Durkin looks to work on in fall camp. He knows he has an athletic bunch that can run to the football. However, they need to be able to get the defense set, and they need to be able to read and diagnose opposing offenses, and as the spring game showed, the linebackers have a long way to go to get to that point.
Looking ahead, the Gators would clearly like to add some size to this group. Adding a player (or two) who can project in the middle is a key goal. Curtis Grant tops the list of players who can fill that role in the 2011 class. Lamar Dawson is high on the board as well, in addition to USC commitment Kent Turene and Georgia product A.J. Johnson (who could ultimately project as a defensive end in college as well).
On the outside, Florida has already added a superb athlete in Ryan Shazier, who will have to make the transition from defensive end to linebacker on the next level. Perhaps the top linebacker on the board is Stephone Anthony, who has the athleticism to play on the outside, but the size to be a factor in the middle as well. His versatility is extremely intriguing. Tony Steward is considered one of the top linebacker prospects in the entire country, and he resides just an hour up the road from Gainesville in St. Augustine. Currently, he appears to be leaning more towards Florida State or Clemson, however. Norkethius Otis is a hybrid linebacker/defensive end who has the athleticism to contribute in a number of ways at the next level.
Three names to keep a close eye on down the stretch:
- Graham Stewart visited Gainesville twice this summer, and tested extremely well. He is a native of Connecticut, and the Gators have been quite active in the Nutmeg State over the past few years due to the presence of Steve Addazio (a native of the region) on the staff.
- You could call him the "poor man's James Wilder" of this class. Dexter Staley is a two-way star who could be an impact linebacker or big back on the next level a year for now. He has had some academic issues to push through, but the Gators are still a factor in his recruitment. If Florida does not land James Wilder, Staley could be the guy the Gators look to next to play on either side of the ball at the next level.
- The son of former UF and NFL linebacker James Harrell, look out for Tampa native Anthony Harrell. He has a strong interest in the Gators, and an offer down the road (no matter how late) would likely result in Harrell taking a really long look at spending his college years in Gainesville.
In some circles, the Gators are considered the favorite for both Anthony and Grant, which would be a home-run for linebackers coach D.J. Durkin if he can pull it off. Adding another option, such as Dawson, Turene, Johnson, or one of the many other options on the board would only make this group that much better heading into 2011.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Where the Gators stand: Defensive Tackle
Last week, we started a position-by-position analysis as to where Florida currently stands in regards to the Class of 2011, and what needs still have to be met across the board. After wrapping up the offense, the defense is now on tap as to where Florida currently stands on the recruiting trail. Today, we focus on the defensive tackles...
Current Florida Depth Chart:
Defensive Tackle
6 - Jaye Howard (6-3, 302, R-Jr.)
92 - Terron Sanders (6-1, 309, R-Sr.)
58 - Dominique Easley (6-1, 280, Fr.)
68 - Leon Orr (6-4, 315, Fr.)
Nose Tackle
99 - Omar Hunter (6-0, 307, R-So.)
90 - Lawrence Marsh (6-5, 290, R-Sr.)
47 - Brandon Antwine (6-0, 290, R-Sr.)
73 - Sharrif Floyd (6-3, 301, Fr.)
Top of the board:
Timmy Jernigan (6-3, 280, Lake City, Fla./Columbia)
Others to watch:
Todd Barr (6-1, 265, Lakewood, Calif./Lakewood)
Devonte Brown (6-4, 285, Fayetteville, N.C./Jack Britt)
Lonnie Gosha (6-2, 275, Lake Butler, Fla./Union County)
Viliami Moala (6-2, 325, Sacramento, Calif./Grant)
Chavis Akins (6-3, 320, Homestead, Fla./Homestead)
Brandon Clemons (6-3, 265, Milford, Pa./Delaware Valley)
Elkino Watson (6-2, 280, Miami, Fla./Booker T. Washington)
Terry Bell (6-5, 280, Lakeland, Fla./Tenoroc)
Mason Fuller (6-1, 295, Chicago, Ill./Urban Prep)
Analysis: Florida heads into the 2010 season with an with a deep and talented group of defensive tackles -- one of the major reasons that talking about SEC and National Championships with this bunch is not out of the realm of possibilities for this coming fall.
However, looking ahead, this is potentially a major need area for the Gators looking ahead to the 2011 class. It is an upperclassmen-laden group which could suffer some serious losses heading into next fall.
Three fifth-year seniors -- Brandon Antwine, Lawrence Marsh and Terron Sanders -- figure to exhaust their eligibility after this season barring some change in circumstances. Jaye Howard has the potential to play himself into a high-round NFL Draft pick and depart a year early. Leon Orr has been rumored to be targeted for a possible position switch to the offensive line sometime down the line, although he gets first crack at defensive tackle before that happens.
That's why it comes as a bit of a surprise that Timmy Jernigan has really been the only major target at defensive tackle on the board for assistant coach Dan McCarney. Jernigan has been pursued by the Gators since his freshman year of high school. Some people point to the highly-touted group Florida signed last year as a possible deterrent for his signing with the Gators in February. From my vantage point, however, there is a considerable opening for a talented youngster (which Jernigan certainly is) to come in and make an impact as a freshman.
If Dominique Easley, Sharrif Floyd and Omar Hunter end up being the only returnees at defensive tackle next year, there will undoubtedly be some movement to get this unit replenished. Matt Patchan (or someone else) could move over from the offensive line. Earl Okine could slide in from his defensive end slot. Although current commitment Jeoffrey Pagan is projected to play defensive end, he could certainly give the Gators some snaps from the interior of the defensive line as well. Still, it would seemingly make a lot of sense for Florida to sign a second defensive tackle in this class, and there are plenty of options on the board. Lonnie Gosha gives the Gators another local option to consider (both Gosha and Jernigan live within 45 minutes of the Swamp). Todd Barr is one of the top defensive line prospects on the West Coast, and he is expected to visit Florida later this month. Devonte Brown has an offer from Florida as well, and he is a former teammate of Xavier Nixon, who is the projected opening-day starter for the Gators at left tackle heading into fall camp.
One other name to keep an eye on as a sleeper is Elkino Watson out of Booker T. Washington. Playing alongside 2010 Florida signee Lynden Trail for the Tornadoes last fall, Watson managed to rack up over 60 tackles and nine sacks from his defensive tackle slot. Certainly not a bad number at all for an interior lineman.
In any case, look for Florida to continue their strong pursuit of Jernigan, while considering a number of options to potentially bring in alongside him for the Class of 2011. One is the absolute minimum, but taking two at defensive tackle seems entirely realistic as well.
Current Florida Depth Chart:
Defensive Tackle
6 - Jaye Howard (6-3, 302, R-Jr.)
92 - Terron Sanders (6-1, 309, R-Sr.)
58 - Dominique Easley (6-1, 280, Fr.)
68 - Leon Orr (6-4, 315, Fr.)
Nose Tackle
99 - Omar Hunter (6-0, 307, R-So.)
90 - Lawrence Marsh (6-5, 290, R-Sr.)
47 - Brandon Antwine (6-0, 290, R-Sr.)
73 - Sharrif Floyd (6-3, 301, Fr.)
Top of the board:
Timmy Jernigan (6-3, 280, Lake City, Fla./Columbia)
Others to watch:
Todd Barr (6-1, 265, Lakewood, Calif./Lakewood)
Devonte Brown (6-4, 285, Fayetteville, N.C./Jack Britt)
Lonnie Gosha (6-2, 275, Lake Butler, Fla./Union County)
Viliami Moala (6-2, 325, Sacramento, Calif./Grant)
Chavis Akins (6-3, 320, Homestead, Fla./Homestead)
Brandon Clemons (6-3, 265, Milford, Pa./Delaware Valley)
Elkino Watson (6-2, 280, Miami, Fla./Booker T. Washington)
Terry Bell (6-5, 280, Lakeland, Fla./Tenoroc)
Mason Fuller (6-1, 295, Chicago, Ill./Urban Prep)
Analysis: Florida heads into the 2010 season with an with a deep and talented group of defensive tackles -- one of the major reasons that talking about SEC and National Championships with this bunch is not out of the realm of possibilities for this coming fall.
However, looking ahead, this is potentially a major need area for the Gators looking ahead to the 2011 class. It is an upperclassmen-laden group which could suffer some serious losses heading into next fall.
Three fifth-year seniors -- Brandon Antwine, Lawrence Marsh and Terron Sanders -- figure to exhaust their eligibility after this season barring some change in circumstances. Jaye Howard has the potential to play himself into a high-round NFL Draft pick and depart a year early. Leon Orr has been rumored to be targeted for a possible position switch to the offensive line sometime down the line, although he gets first crack at defensive tackle before that happens.
That's why it comes as a bit of a surprise that Timmy Jernigan has really been the only major target at defensive tackle on the board for assistant coach Dan McCarney. Jernigan has been pursued by the Gators since his freshman year of high school. Some people point to the highly-touted group Florida signed last year as a possible deterrent for his signing with the Gators in February. From my vantage point, however, there is a considerable opening for a talented youngster (which Jernigan certainly is) to come in and make an impact as a freshman.
If Dominique Easley, Sharrif Floyd and Omar Hunter end up being the only returnees at defensive tackle next year, there will undoubtedly be some movement to get this unit replenished. Matt Patchan (or someone else) could move over from the offensive line. Earl Okine could slide in from his defensive end slot. Although current commitment Jeoffrey Pagan is projected to play defensive end, he could certainly give the Gators some snaps from the interior of the defensive line as well. Still, it would seemingly make a lot of sense for Florida to sign a second defensive tackle in this class, and there are plenty of options on the board. Lonnie Gosha gives the Gators another local option to consider (both Gosha and Jernigan live within 45 minutes of the Swamp). Todd Barr is one of the top defensive line prospects on the West Coast, and he is expected to visit Florida later this month. Devonte Brown has an offer from Florida as well, and he is a former teammate of Xavier Nixon, who is the projected opening-day starter for the Gators at left tackle heading into fall camp.
One other name to keep an eye on as a sleeper is Elkino Watson out of Booker T. Washington. Playing alongside 2010 Florida signee Lynden Trail for the Tornadoes last fall, Watson managed to rack up over 60 tackles and nine sacks from his defensive tackle slot. Certainly not a bad number at all for an interior lineman.
In any case, look for Florida to continue their strong pursuit of Jernigan, while considering a number of options to potentially bring in alongside him for the Class of 2011. One is the absolute minimum, but taking two at defensive tackle seems entirely realistic as well.
Where the Gators stand: Defensive End
This week, I've embarked on a position-by-position analysis as to where Florida currently stands in regards to the Class of 2011, and what needs still have to be met across the board. After wrapping up the other side of the ball with a look at the offensive line, this is the first look at where Florida stands on the recruiting trail in regards to the defense. Without further ado, my take on the defensive ends...
FOX (Weakside)
44 - Duke Lemmens (6-3, 250, Sr.) OR
7 - Ronald Powell (6-4, 248, Fr.)
34 - Lerentee McCray (6-2, 245, R-So.)
85 - Lynden Trail (6-7, 217, Fr.)
Strongside
94 - Justin Trattou (6-4, 255, Sr.)
96 - William Green (6-3, 252, Jr.)
91 - Earl Okine (6-7, 282, R-So.)
93 - Kedric Johnson (6-4, 230, R-Fr.)
Committed to Florida for 2011:
Jeoffrey Pagan (6-3, 265, Asheville, N.C.)
Top of the board:
Curt Maggitt (6-3, 215, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla./Dwyer)
Ray Drew (6-5, 250, Thomasville, Ga./Thomas County Central)
Other prospects to watch:
Anthony Chickillo (6-3, 230, Tampa, Fla./Alonso)
Xzavier Dickson (6-3, 245, Griffin, Ga./Griffin)
Giovani Francois (6-1, 240, Bradenton, Fla./Manatee)
Giorgio Newberry (6-6, 255, Ft. Pierce, Fla./Central)
Jarquez Samuel (6-5, 240, Valdosta, Ga./Valdosta)
Stephon Tuitt (6-5, 260, Monroe, Ga./Monroe Area)
Ishaq Williams (6-6, 225, Brooklyn, N.Y./Lincoln)
Jordan Williams (6-4, 245, Gainesville, Fla./Gainesville)
Ricardo Williams (6-5, 210, Homestead, Fla./Homestead)
Analysis: This is a fairly deep (although unproven) group for the Gators, and the recent addition of Cal transfer Chris Martin (who could play linebacker or defensive end at Florida) only makes it that much more impressive for a group that will soon be headlined by Consensus Prep All-American Ronald Powell.
Looking to the future, the addition of Jeoffrey Pagan gives Florida a versatile defender who will likely be able to line up both inside and outside depending on the situation. His skillset is very similar to former Florida defensive lineman Ray McDonald (now with the San Francisco 49ers) and current Florida defensive lineman Jaye Howard.
There really isn't a whole lot of need here outside of Pagan. Curt Maggitt, Ray Drew and Anthony Chickillo are the three names to keep a close eye on down the stretch. Maggitt is a premier pass-rusher, and has the athletic ability to potentially get a look at outside linebacker as well. Drew and Chickillo will continue to be recruited by the Gators, but the numbers for Florida, and their interest in other schools (Miami for Chickillo, Auburn and Georgia for Drew) dictate they will most likely end up elsewhere.
There are still enough prospects on the board that if Florida experiences a crisis of depth due to injury and/or transfer following the season, they will have some options on the board. One of those possibilities is Jordan Williams, a hometown kid who has nearly 20 offers, but has not seen a ton of interest from the Gators to date. He has the size and skill-set to be another inside/outside threat for Florida along the defensive front as well.
In all likelihood, Florida goes with Pagan and Maggitt (who has been quoted recently as saying Florida leads) and calls it a day at the defensive end position adding to an already talented depth pool at the position.
FOX (Weakside)
44 - Duke Lemmens (6-3, 250, Sr.) OR
7 - Ronald Powell (6-4, 248, Fr.)
34 - Lerentee McCray (6-2, 245, R-So.)
85 - Lynden Trail (6-7, 217, Fr.)
Strongside
94 - Justin Trattou (6-4, 255, Sr.)
96 - William Green (6-3, 252, Jr.)
91 - Earl Okine (6-7, 282, R-So.)
93 - Kedric Johnson (6-4, 230, R-Fr.)
Committed to Florida for 2011:
Jeoffrey Pagan (6-3, 265, Asheville, N.C.)
Top of the board:
Curt Maggitt (6-3, 215, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla./Dwyer)
Ray Drew (6-5, 250, Thomasville, Ga./Thomas County Central)
Other prospects to watch:
Anthony Chickillo (6-3, 230, Tampa, Fla./Alonso)
Xzavier Dickson (6-3, 245, Griffin, Ga./Griffin)
Giovani Francois (6-1, 240, Bradenton, Fla./Manatee)
Giorgio Newberry (6-6, 255, Ft. Pierce, Fla./Central)
Jarquez Samuel (6-5, 240, Valdosta, Ga./Valdosta)
Stephon Tuitt (6-5, 260, Monroe, Ga./Monroe Area)
Ishaq Williams (6-6, 225, Brooklyn, N.Y./Lincoln)
Jordan Williams (6-4, 245, Gainesville, Fla./Gainesville)
Ricardo Williams (6-5, 210, Homestead, Fla./Homestead)
Analysis: This is a fairly deep (although unproven) group for the Gators, and the recent addition of Cal transfer Chris Martin (who could play linebacker or defensive end at Florida) only makes it that much more impressive for a group that will soon be headlined by Consensus Prep All-American Ronald Powell.
Looking to the future, the addition of Jeoffrey Pagan gives Florida a versatile defender who will likely be able to line up both inside and outside depending on the situation. His skillset is very similar to former Florida defensive lineman Ray McDonald (now with the San Francisco 49ers) and current Florida defensive lineman Jaye Howard.
There really isn't a whole lot of need here outside of Pagan. Curt Maggitt, Ray Drew and Anthony Chickillo are the three names to keep a close eye on down the stretch. Maggitt is a premier pass-rusher, and has the athletic ability to potentially get a look at outside linebacker as well. Drew and Chickillo will continue to be recruited by the Gators, but the numbers for Florida, and their interest in other schools (Miami for Chickillo, Auburn and Georgia for Drew) dictate they will most likely end up elsewhere.
There are still enough prospects on the board that if Florida experiences a crisis of depth due to injury and/or transfer following the season, they will have some options on the board. One of those possibilities is Jordan Williams, a hometown kid who has nearly 20 offers, but has not seen a ton of interest from the Gators to date. He has the size and skill-set to be another inside/outside threat for Florida along the defensive front as well.
In all likelihood, Florida goes with Pagan and Maggitt (who has been quoted recently as saying Florida leads) and calls it a day at the defensive end position adding to an already talented depth pool at the position.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Where the Gators stand: Offensive Line
This week, I'll be hitting each spot on the Gators depth chart with a position-by-position analysis on where Florida currently stands in regards to the Class of 2011, and what needs still have to be met across the board. This is the fifth part of the series, as the offense comes to a close with a look at the big guys up front.
Current Florida Depth Chart:
Left Tackle
73 - Xavier Nixon (6-5, 300, So.) OR
71 - Matt Patchan (6-6, 292, R-So.)
77 - Ian Silberman (6-5, 285, Fr.)
Left Guard
57 - Carl Johnson (6-5, 355, R-Sr.)
67 - Jon Halapio (6-3, 312, R-Fr.) OR
72 - Jon Harrison (6-3, 300, R-Fr.)
Center
55 - Maurkice Pouncey (6-4, 310, Sr.)
50 - Sam Robey (6-4, 293, R-So.)
58 - Nick Alajajian (6-4, 295, R-Fr.)
Right Guard
66 - James Wilson (6-3, 315, R-Jr.)
74 - Maurice Hurt (6-3, 320, R-Sr.)
78 - David Young (6-4, 304, R-So.)
Right Tackle
76 - Marcus Gilbert (6-5, 320, R-Sr.)
64 - Kyle Kohene (6-5, 300, R-Fr.)
75 - Chaz Green (6-5, 289, Fr.)
Committed to Florida for 2011
Tommy Jordan (6-4, 290, Ridgefield, Conn./Ridgefield) - Jan. enrollee
Trip Thurman (6-6, 310, Dover, Del./Dover)
Top of the board
Cyrus Kouandjio (6-7, 320, Hyattsville, Md./DeMatha Catholic)
Josue Matias (6-5, 290, Union City, N.J./Union)
Xzavier Ward (6-7, 260, Moultrie, Ga./Colquitt County)
Marcus Jackson (6-2, 310, Vero Beach, Fla./Vero Beach) -- Committed to MIAMI
Kyler Kerbyson (6-4, 285, Knoxville, Tenn./Catholic)
Others to watch:
Uneik Crumbley (6-3, 340, Americus, Ga./Sumter)
Zach Hooks (6-4, 285, Aliquippa, Pa./Aliquippa)
Chase Hounshell (6-5, 260, Kirtland, Ohio/Lake Catholic)
Errin Joe (6-3, 285, Lakeland, Fla./Lake Gibson)
Kaleb Johnson (6-4, 285, Jacksonville, Fla./Ed White)
Dontae Levingston (6-4, 285, Harbor City, Calif./Narbonne)
Marquis Lucas (6-3, 305, Miami, Fla./Central)
Keith Lumpkin (6-8, 290, Jersey City, N.J./St. Peter's Prep)
Tyler Pierson (6-3, 265, Clearwater, Fla./Countryside)
Tony Posada (6-5, 315, Tampa, Fla./Plant)
Derrick Thorpe (6-4, 255, Neptune Beach, Fla./Fletcher)
Darrell Williams (6-5, 250, Orlando, Fla./Evans)
Analysis: It's always a safe bet for a college program to invest about one-third of their 85 allotted scholarships on the offensive and defensive lines (in other words, 28 or more of the scholarship players on a team should play along the line of scrimmage).
Looking at the Gators depth chart, Florida currently has 22 underclass players on the depth chart (23 if you include Chris Martin, who could end up at linebacker or defensive end in Gainesville). Florida will lose four seniors following this season who will have exhausted their college eligibility. Along with yearly attrition figured in, it would seem that the target number of linemen for this class would be something like eight, with four offensive linemen and four defensive linemen being a reasonable goal.
The real question here is, will Florida be able to get to four offensive linemen in the 2011 class?It doesn't seem like a sure bet at this point. It has been a down year around the state of Florida for the position (especially when compared with last year), and Florida has missed on a number of targets for one reason or another.
- Tyler Moore (6-6, 305, Clearwater, Fla./Countryside) was arguably the top lineman on the board for Steve Addazio early on. He narrowed things down to Nebraska and Florida before he decided to follow a long line of family members to play in Lincoln last fall.
- This spring, Florida targeted Jordan Prestwood (6-6, 275, Plant City, Fla./Plant City) as a potential left tackle candidate. The Gators would offer in March, shortly before Prestwood decided to commit to Notre Dame in early April.
- Although Bobby Hart (6-4, 290, Ft. Lauderdale, Fla./St. Thomas Aquinas) was high on the Gators early on, Florida did not return the love, waiting until April to extend an offer. By that time, Hart had moved on to other schools, and would make a commitment to Florida State in July.
Beyond those three players, there may not be another offensive lineman from the state of Florida who gets an offer from the Gators unless something changes down the stretch. Clearly, Addazio is not all that impressed by the selection in-state this year, and has looked mostly to the Northeast to help replenish the reserves along the offensive front.
Say what you want about Tommy Jordan, but he was a September 1st offer for the Gators. Jordan impressed during a workout in Gainesville last summer, and was clearly high on the board for Florida from the outset. Jordan will be a versatile addition to the offensive line, and has the ability to line up at center, guard, or even possibly right offensive tackle.
Trip Thurman will join him, and he has the look of a future offensive tackle in Gainesville. More technically sound as a run blocker, he likely projects as a right tackle for the Gators. Thurman is every bit of 6-6, 310 pounds, and will give Addazio another big body to work with up front when he reports next fall.
The biggest priority now for Florida is that they add someone who can potentially contribute at left tackle down the road. Xavier Nixon has the look of a player who could go pro after the 2011 season and be selected in the first round of the NFL Draft. If that scenario takes place, the left tackle Florida recruits in the 2011 class would get one year to prepare for the open position heading into the fall of 2012. As mentioned in the tight ends round-up, the Gators could elect for an tight end/offensive line 'tweener (Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Cameron Clear, Troy Niklas or Brandon Fulse) at the slot, or possibly look to prospects projected to play on the defensive line (Giorgio Newberry stands out there) to play left tackle down the road if some of the prospects at tackle do not pan out.
At the top, Cyrus Kouandjio is possibly the top offensive line prospect in the country, and he projects as a potential left tackle candidate. Florida does not appear to be a serious factor for his services at the present time, however. Josue Matias and Xzavier Ward are next on the board, and both currently look to have the Gators on their short lists. Ward is more of a true left tackle candidate, while Matias could project more as a right tackle. In any case, both are expected to visit Florida this fall, and they could be two of the names to closely watch at tackle as National Signing Day continues to creep closer.
Another name to watch is Chase Hounshell, who will visit Florida next week. A meeting with the Florida coaching staff could result in an offer. If that were to happen, Hounshell would draw strong interest at that left tackle slot as well.
An additional interior lineman would likely close out this class for the Gators along the offensive line. Keep in mind, true freshman Leon Orr could end up on the offensive line next spring, and that could be factoring in Florida's direction in regards to recruiting along the offensive front. In any case, the Gators are halfway to their goal, and look to need two more prospects to close this group out along the offensive line.
Current Florida Depth Chart:
Left Tackle
73 - Xavier Nixon (6-5, 300, So.) OR
71 - Matt Patchan (6-6, 292, R-So.)
77 - Ian Silberman (6-5, 285, Fr.)
Left Guard
57 - Carl Johnson (6-5, 355, R-Sr.)
67 - Jon Halapio (6-3, 312, R-Fr.) OR
72 - Jon Harrison (6-3, 300, R-Fr.)
Center
55 - Maurkice Pouncey (6-4, 310, Sr.)
50 - Sam Robey (6-4, 293, R-So.)
58 - Nick Alajajian (6-4, 295, R-Fr.)
Right Guard
66 - James Wilson (6-3, 315, R-Jr.)
74 - Maurice Hurt (6-3, 320, R-Sr.)
78 - David Young (6-4, 304, R-So.)
Right Tackle
76 - Marcus Gilbert (6-5, 320, R-Sr.)
64 - Kyle Kohene (6-5, 300, R-Fr.)
75 - Chaz Green (6-5, 289, Fr.)
Committed to Florida for 2011
Tommy Jordan (6-4, 290, Ridgefield, Conn./Ridgefield) - Jan. enrollee
Trip Thurman (6-6, 310, Dover, Del./Dover)
Top of the board
Cyrus Kouandjio (6-7, 320, Hyattsville, Md./DeMatha Catholic)
Josue Matias (6-5, 290, Union City, N.J./Union)
Xzavier Ward (6-7, 260, Moultrie, Ga./Colquitt County)
Marcus Jackson (6-2, 310, Vero Beach, Fla./Vero Beach) -- Committed to MIAMI
Kyler Kerbyson (6-4, 285, Knoxville, Tenn./Catholic)
Others to watch:
Uneik Crumbley (6-3, 340, Americus, Ga./Sumter)
Zach Hooks (6-4, 285, Aliquippa, Pa./Aliquippa)
Chase Hounshell (6-5, 260, Kirtland, Ohio/Lake Catholic)
Errin Joe (6-3, 285, Lakeland, Fla./Lake Gibson)
Kaleb Johnson (6-4, 285, Jacksonville, Fla./Ed White)
Dontae Levingston (6-4, 285, Harbor City, Calif./Narbonne)
Marquis Lucas (6-3, 305, Miami, Fla./Central)
Keith Lumpkin (6-8, 290, Jersey City, N.J./St. Peter's Prep)
Tyler Pierson (6-3, 265, Clearwater, Fla./Countryside)
Tony Posada (6-5, 315, Tampa, Fla./Plant)
Derrick Thorpe (6-4, 255, Neptune Beach, Fla./Fletcher)
Darrell Williams (6-5, 250, Orlando, Fla./Evans)
Analysis: It's always a safe bet for a college program to invest about one-third of their 85 allotted scholarships on the offensive and defensive lines (in other words, 28 or more of the scholarship players on a team should play along the line of scrimmage).
Looking at the Gators depth chart, Florida currently has 22 underclass players on the depth chart (23 if you include Chris Martin, who could end up at linebacker or defensive end in Gainesville). Florida will lose four seniors following this season who will have exhausted their college eligibility. Along with yearly attrition figured in, it would seem that the target number of linemen for this class would be something like eight, with four offensive linemen and four defensive linemen being a reasonable goal.
The real question here is, will Florida be able to get to four offensive linemen in the 2011 class?It doesn't seem like a sure bet at this point. It has been a down year around the state of Florida for the position (especially when compared with last year), and Florida has missed on a number of targets for one reason or another.
- Tyler Moore (6-6, 305, Clearwater, Fla./Countryside) was arguably the top lineman on the board for Steve Addazio early on. He narrowed things down to Nebraska and Florida before he decided to follow a long line of family members to play in Lincoln last fall.
- This spring, Florida targeted Jordan Prestwood (6-6, 275, Plant City, Fla./Plant City) as a potential left tackle candidate. The Gators would offer in March, shortly before Prestwood decided to commit to Notre Dame in early April.
- Although Bobby Hart (6-4, 290, Ft. Lauderdale, Fla./St. Thomas Aquinas) was high on the Gators early on, Florida did not return the love, waiting until April to extend an offer. By that time, Hart had moved on to other schools, and would make a commitment to Florida State in July.
Beyond those three players, there may not be another offensive lineman from the state of Florida who gets an offer from the Gators unless something changes down the stretch. Clearly, Addazio is not all that impressed by the selection in-state this year, and has looked mostly to the Northeast to help replenish the reserves along the offensive front.
Say what you want about Tommy Jordan, but he was a September 1st offer for the Gators. Jordan impressed during a workout in Gainesville last summer, and was clearly high on the board for Florida from the outset. Jordan will be a versatile addition to the offensive line, and has the ability to line up at center, guard, or even possibly right offensive tackle.
Trip Thurman will join him, and he has the look of a future offensive tackle in Gainesville. More technically sound as a run blocker, he likely projects as a right tackle for the Gators. Thurman is every bit of 6-6, 310 pounds, and will give Addazio another big body to work with up front when he reports next fall.
The biggest priority now for Florida is that they add someone who can potentially contribute at left tackle down the road. Xavier Nixon has the look of a player who could go pro after the 2011 season and be selected in the first round of the NFL Draft. If that scenario takes place, the left tackle Florida recruits in the 2011 class would get one year to prepare for the open position heading into the fall of 2012. As mentioned in the tight ends round-up, the Gators could elect for an tight end/offensive line 'tweener (Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Cameron Clear, Troy Niklas or Brandon Fulse) at the slot, or possibly look to prospects projected to play on the defensive line (Giorgio Newberry stands out there) to play left tackle down the road if some of the prospects at tackle do not pan out.
At the top, Cyrus Kouandjio is possibly the top offensive line prospect in the country, and he projects as a potential left tackle candidate. Florida does not appear to be a serious factor for his services at the present time, however. Josue Matias and Xzavier Ward are next on the board, and both currently look to have the Gators on their short lists. Ward is more of a true left tackle candidate, while Matias could project more as a right tackle. In any case, both are expected to visit Florida this fall, and they could be two of the names to closely watch at tackle as National Signing Day continues to creep closer.
Another name to watch is Chase Hounshell, who will visit Florida next week. A meeting with the Florida coaching staff could result in an offer. If that were to happen, Hounshell would draw strong interest at that left tackle slot as well.
An additional interior lineman would likely close out this class for the Gators along the offensive line. Keep in mind, true freshman Leon Orr could end up on the offensive line next spring, and that could be factoring in Florida's direction in regards to recruiting along the offensive front. In any case, the Gators are halfway to their goal, and look to need two more prospects to close this group out along the offensive line.
Florida makes a push for Stefan McClure...
For the second year in a row, the Florida Gators are making the secondary a huge priority. It's possible Urban Meyer will sign a class in 2011 that includes as many as seven players projected to play in the defensive backfield after signing seven in February (one of those signees, California native Travon Van, did not qualify and subsequently enrolled at Marshall) as well.
One of the defensive backs Florida signed in 2010 was Joshua Shaw, a highly-regarded California prospect who Florida really didn't pursue until the latter parts of the summer. Despite the late start on the recruitment of Shaw, the Gators were still able to dip into California and land one of the highest-ranked cornerback prospects in the entire country.
The Gators may look to go in a similar direction once again in this class, as Florida has made contact with Stefan McClure (5-11, 175, Vista, Calif./Vista) in recent weeks. Don't be surprised if Florida comes soon with an offer and joins the fray for one of the best secondary prospects on the West Coast. However, it looks as if Florida will have some work to do if they plan to make a run for McClure over the coming months, although he maintains he is wide open for the time being.
"I'm interested in everyone right now," McClure said of his current position as to a top group of schools right now as interest in his services continues to grow.
UCLA (whom McClure has visited four times) appears to be in a very strong position currently to land his signature, however. Washington (where McClure will take an official visit on September 11th) was also mentioned along with Boise St., Minnesota, Oregon St., and San Diego St. as teams McClure would be keeping a close eye on. However, then there are those East Coast schools jumping in the mix as well.
"Florida started talking to me about a week before I headed to Gridiron Kings (which was held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports in Lake Buena Vista). They would jump right in there (with an offer)," McClure explained of the recent developments that have arisen between himself and Florida.
McClure noted that Florida was advised of his talents by former UF Director of Football Operations Troy Starr, who is currently working as the head coach at Helix High School in San Diego.
"(Florida) is a national powerhouse," McClure said of the Gators. "Coach Meyer was also telling me about their situation at cornerback. There is a chance for immediate playing time as a freshman at Florida."
Brian White is currently recruiting McClure for Florida.
However, the Gators are not the only team in the state to start showing an interest in McClure. The Miami Hurricanes have also made a push for his services as well, and McClure fully admits he has a strong interest in what is going on down in Coral Gables as well.
"There is a great tradition at 'the U,'" he said. "Great players come back there to work out. They have a great coaching staff, and I also was impressed by the (12:1) student-to-teacher ratio there as well."
So while Stefan McClure continues to list a number of powers on the West Coast among the teams he is interested in, his recruitment continues to expand from Coast-to-Coast, as the Gators and Hurricanes, among others, start to throw their hats in the ring for one of the top-ranked cornerbacks in the country.
One of the defensive backs Florida signed in 2010 was Joshua Shaw, a highly-regarded California prospect who Florida really didn't pursue until the latter parts of the summer. Despite the late start on the recruitment of Shaw, the Gators were still able to dip into California and land one of the highest-ranked cornerback prospects in the entire country.
The Gators may look to go in a similar direction once again in this class, as Florida has made contact with Stefan McClure (5-11, 175, Vista, Calif./Vista) in recent weeks. Don't be surprised if Florida comes soon with an offer and joins the fray for one of the best secondary prospects on the West Coast. However, it looks as if Florida will have some work to do if they plan to make a run for McClure over the coming months, although he maintains he is wide open for the time being.
"I'm interested in everyone right now," McClure said of his current position as to a top group of schools right now as interest in his services continues to grow.
UCLA (whom McClure has visited four times) appears to be in a very strong position currently to land his signature, however. Washington (where McClure will take an official visit on September 11th) was also mentioned along with Boise St., Minnesota, Oregon St., and San Diego St. as teams McClure would be keeping a close eye on. However, then there are those East Coast schools jumping in the mix as well.
"Florida started talking to me about a week before I headed to Gridiron Kings (which was held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports in Lake Buena Vista). They would jump right in there (with an offer)," McClure explained of the recent developments that have arisen between himself and Florida.
McClure noted that Florida was advised of his talents by former UF Director of Football Operations Troy Starr, who is currently working as the head coach at Helix High School in San Diego.
"(Florida) is a national powerhouse," McClure said of the Gators. "Coach Meyer was also telling me about their situation at cornerback. There is a chance for immediate playing time as a freshman at Florida."
Brian White is currently recruiting McClure for Florida.
However, the Gators are not the only team in the state to start showing an interest in McClure. The Miami Hurricanes have also made a push for his services as well, and McClure fully admits he has a strong interest in what is going on down in Coral Gables as well.
"There is a great tradition at 'the U,'" he said. "Great players come back there to work out. They have a great coaching staff, and I also was impressed by the (12:1) student-to-teacher ratio there as well."
So while Stefan McClure continues to list a number of powers on the West Coast among the teams he is interested in, his recruitment continues to expand from Coast-to-Coast, as the Gators and Hurricanes, among others, start to throw their hats in the ring for one of the top-ranked cornerbacks in the country.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Where the Gators stand: Tight End/Fullback
This week, I'll be hitting each spot on the Gators depth chart with a position-by-position analysis on where Florida currently stands in regards to the Class of 2011, and what needs still have to be met across the board. This is the fourth part of the series, as after previewing the other skill positions on the roster we will now turn our attention to the tight ends and fullbacks...
Current Florida Depth Chart:
Tight End
11 - Jordan Reed (6-3, 240, R-Fr.)
80 - Desmond Parks (6-5, 244, R-Fr.)
32 - Gerald Christian (6-3, 240, Fr.)
88 - Michael McFarland (6-6, 237, Fr.)
Fullback
45 - T.J. Pridemore (6-1, 241, R-So.)
42 - Steve Wilks (6-1, 235, R-Jr.)
Committed to Florida for 2011:
Hunter Joyer (5-11, 245, Tampa, Fla./Tampa Catholic)
A.C. Leonard (6-3, 235, Jacksonville, Fla./University Christian) - Jan. enrollee
Top of the board:
Nick O'Leary (6-4, 230, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla./Dwyer)
Jay Rome (6-5, 240, Valdosta, Ga./Valdosta)
Junior Pome'e (6-3, 215, Moreno Valley, Calif./Rancho Verde)
Austin Seferian-Jenkins (6-7, 265, Gig Harbor, Wash./Gig Harbor)
Cameron Clear (6-6, 265, Memphis, Tenn./Central)
Others to watch:
Troy Niklas (6-6, 250, Anaheim, Calif./Servite)
Brandon Fulse (6-4, 250, Ft. Meade, Fla./Ft. Meade
Jerrell Adams (6-5, 225, Summerton, S.C./Scotts Branch)
Alonzo Robertson (6-3, 210, Avon Park, Fla./Avon Park)
Analysis: Who would have ever thought that the fullback and tight end positions would be a strength of the Gators under Urban Meyer? No one who watched this team back in 2005, that's for sure (and as an aside, both positions fall under the responsibilities of assistant coach Brian White, for now, so they are grouped together in this analysis as well).
In any case, a relatively strong area of the team only figures to get better next fall. The Gators will add A.C. Leonard (quite possibly the top tight end prospect in the entire Southeast) along with Hunter Joyer (considered by many to be among the top fullback prospects in the country). It's really amazing to see this transformation take place over the last two years or so before our very eyes. It can all be traced back directly to the play of Tim Tebow, however. He worse so many hats for the Gators over the past four years that those abilities will now be diversified among a number of positions, including running back (where the Gators are hotly pursuing bulldozer James Wilder), fullback (the aforementioned addition of Joyer), and tight end (where the Gators have signed four players over the last two classes, and figure to add at least one more for 2011). Give the coaches credit. They know another Tim Tebow isn't walking through that door, and are smartly looking at ways to spread his workload around so that Florida can continue their considerable offensive success over the coming years.
Although the additions of Joyer and Leonard are both very positive for the direction of Florida on offense in the future, the Gators are not done in this area as it relates to the Class of 2011. Not by a long shot.
Clearly, the number one option left on the board for Florida in the Class of 2011 (as it is for several teams still in the mix for his services) at tight end is Nick O'Leary. O'Leary is an incredible talent, his Friday Night Lights performance notwithstanding, he is still one of the very best in the entire country. Florida's chances to land O'Leary don't seem great, but the Gators will continue to push for his signature, and I don't think you can rule out Florida until the very end on this one, especially with their deep ties into Dwyer High School.
The player who really emerged at Friday Night Lights at the tight end position is Junior Pome'e, a high school teammate of star freshman Ronald Powell. Pome'e is a little different than O'Leary and Leonard in that he is more of a flex TE/big WR than a true H-Back or tight end. He provies a big target in the passing game, however, and figures to factor heavily in the plans for Florida moving forward.
Jay Rome remains on the board, although Florida looks to be fading for his signature for the time being. Brandon Fulse (who is also being looked at to potentially play other positions) and Jerrell Adams fall into the same boat as well.
The other major tight end targets on the board -- Cameron Clear, Austin Seferian-Jenkins and Troy Niklas -- all sort of fall in the big TE/project OT 'tweener category. All three prospects are in the 6-6 to 6-7 range, and in excess of 250 pounds. With Florida needing a left tackle for the future, all three of these prospects will be names to watch over the coming months as the search narrows in that regard. Of the three, Florida would currently figure to have the best shot at Clear, who currently has Florida in his top three along with Alabama, Duke, Ole Miss, and Tennessee. Seferian-Jenkins appears to be leaning to Texas, while Niklas currently lists Notre Dame and Stanford as his leaders.
In any case, look for the Gators to add at least one more prospect among this versatile group of athletes, and don't be surprised if they go higher than that by the time February rolls around.
Current Florida Depth Chart:
Tight End
11 - Jordan Reed (6-3, 240, R-Fr.)
80 - Desmond Parks (6-5, 244, R-Fr.)
32 - Gerald Christian (6-3, 240, Fr.)
88 - Michael McFarland (6-6, 237, Fr.)
Fullback
45 - T.J. Pridemore (6-1, 241, R-So.)
42 - Steve Wilks (6-1, 235, R-Jr.)
Committed to Florida for 2011:
Hunter Joyer (5-11, 245, Tampa, Fla./Tampa Catholic)
A.C. Leonard (6-3, 235, Jacksonville, Fla./University Christian) - Jan. enrollee
Top of the board:
Nick O'Leary (6-4, 230, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla./Dwyer)
Jay Rome (6-5, 240, Valdosta, Ga./Valdosta)
Junior Pome'e (6-3, 215, Moreno Valley, Calif./Rancho Verde)
Austin Seferian-Jenkins (6-7, 265, Gig Harbor, Wash./Gig Harbor)
Cameron Clear (6-6, 265, Memphis, Tenn./Central)
Others to watch:
Troy Niklas (6-6, 250, Anaheim, Calif./Servite)
Brandon Fulse (6-4, 250, Ft. Meade, Fla./Ft. Meade
Jerrell Adams (6-5, 225, Summerton, S.C./Scotts Branch)
Alonzo Robertson (6-3, 210, Avon Park, Fla./Avon Park)
Analysis: Who would have ever thought that the fullback and tight end positions would be a strength of the Gators under Urban Meyer? No one who watched this team back in 2005, that's for sure (and as an aside, both positions fall under the responsibilities of assistant coach Brian White, for now, so they are grouped together in this analysis as well).
In any case, a relatively strong area of the team only figures to get better next fall. The Gators will add A.C. Leonard (quite possibly the top tight end prospect in the entire Southeast) along with Hunter Joyer (considered by many to be among the top fullback prospects in the country). It's really amazing to see this transformation take place over the last two years or so before our very eyes. It can all be traced back directly to the play of Tim Tebow, however. He worse so many hats for the Gators over the past four years that those abilities will now be diversified among a number of positions, including running back (where the Gators are hotly pursuing bulldozer James Wilder), fullback (the aforementioned addition of Joyer), and tight end (where the Gators have signed four players over the last two classes, and figure to add at least one more for 2011). Give the coaches credit. They know another Tim Tebow isn't walking through that door, and are smartly looking at ways to spread his workload around so that Florida can continue their considerable offensive success over the coming years.
Although the additions of Joyer and Leonard are both very positive for the direction of Florida on offense in the future, the Gators are not done in this area as it relates to the Class of 2011. Not by a long shot.
Clearly, the number one option left on the board for Florida in the Class of 2011 (as it is for several teams still in the mix for his services) at tight end is Nick O'Leary. O'Leary is an incredible talent, his Friday Night Lights performance notwithstanding, he is still one of the very best in the entire country. Florida's chances to land O'Leary don't seem great, but the Gators will continue to push for his signature, and I don't think you can rule out Florida until the very end on this one, especially with their deep ties into Dwyer High School.
The player who really emerged at Friday Night Lights at the tight end position is Junior Pome'e, a high school teammate of star freshman Ronald Powell. Pome'e is a little different than O'Leary and Leonard in that he is more of a flex TE/big WR than a true H-Back or tight end. He provies a big target in the passing game, however, and figures to factor heavily in the plans for Florida moving forward.
Jay Rome remains on the board, although Florida looks to be fading for his signature for the time being. Brandon Fulse (who is also being looked at to potentially play other positions) and Jerrell Adams fall into the same boat as well.
The other major tight end targets on the board -- Cameron Clear, Austin Seferian-Jenkins and Troy Niklas -- all sort of fall in the big TE/project OT 'tweener category. All three prospects are in the 6-6 to 6-7 range, and in excess of 250 pounds. With Florida needing a left tackle for the future, all three of these prospects will be names to watch over the coming months as the search narrows in that regard. Of the three, Florida would currently figure to have the best shot at Clear, who currently has Florida in his top three along with Alabama, Duke, Ole Miss, and Tennessee. Seferian-Jenkins appears to be leaning to Texas, while Niklas currently lists Notre Dame and Stanford as his leaders.
In any case, look for the Gators to add at least one more prospect among this versatile group of athletes, and don't be surprised if they go higher than that by the time February rolls around.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Where the Gators stand: Wide Receiver
This week, I'll be hitting each spot on the Gators depth chart with a position-by-position analysis on where Florida currently stands in regards to the Class of 2011, and what needs still have to be met across the board. This is the third part of the series, as after previewing the quarterbacks and running backs we will now turn our attention to the wide receivers...
Current Florida depth chart:
WR
6 - Deonte Thompson (5-11, 203, R-Jr.)
7 - Justin Williams (6-1, 205, R-Sr.)
27 - Chris Dunkley (5-11, 180, Fr.)
8 - Adrian Coxson (6-1, 205, Fr.)
SLOT
3 - Chris Rainey (5-9, 178, R-Jr.)
4 - Andre Debose (6-0, 192, R-Fr.)
83 - Solomon Patton (5-9, 175, Fr.)
81 - Robert Clark (5-8, 172, Fr.)
85 - Frankie Hammond (5-11, 180, R-So.)**
WR
9 - Carl Moore (6-4, 217, R-Sr.)
82 - Omarius Hines (6-0, 220, R-So.)
18 - T.J. Lawrence (6-1, 197, R-So.)
89 - Stephen Alli (6-5, 220, R-Fr.)
84 - Quinton Dunbar (6-2, 170, Fr.)
**Frankie Hammond has not worked out with the team this summer, and is not currently on scholarship due to off-field transgressions earlier in the year.
Committed to Florida for 2011:
Javares McRoy (5-9, 170, Lakeland, Fla./Lakeland) - Jan. enrollee
Ja'Juan Story (6-3, 190, Brooksville, Fla./Nature Coast)
Top of the board:
Kelvin Benjamin (6-6, 220, Belle Glade, Fla./Glades Central)
Sammy Watkins (6-2, 190, Ft. Myers/South Ft. Myers)
George Farmer (6-2, 195, Gardena, Calif./Junipero Serra)
Quinta Funderburk (6-3, 205, Chesapeake, Va./Oscar Smith)
Kasen Williams (6-2, 205, Sammamish, Wash./Skyline)
Others to watch:
Quenton Bundrage (6-1, 180, Bradenton, Fla./Manatee)
Vincent Dallas (5-11, 180, Ellenwood, Ga./Cedar Grove
Andre Davis (6-2, 185, Tampa, Fla./Jefferson)
Durrell Eskridge (6-1, 190, Miami, Fla./Central)
Curt Evans (5-11, 175, Hollywood, Fla./Chaminade-Madonna)
Charles Gaines (5-11, 175, Miami, Fla./Jackson)
Bryan Holmes (5-11, 180, Lake Butler, Fla./Union County)
Willie Snead (6-0, 185, Muskegon Heights, Mich./Muskegon Heights)
Jesse York (6-0, 180, Lauderdale Lakes, Fla./Boyd Anderson)
Analysis: Right now the numbers all look pretty good at the wide receiver position, but Florida is aiming to take at least one more in the 2011 class, with Kelvin Benjamin being the focus of the majority of their remaining efforts at the wide receiver position.
Despite the fact Florida is in pretty good shape at the slot position, the Gators went ahead and took Javares McRoy anyways. The reasoning behind that decision simply being that the Gators feel McRoy is as good, if not better, than the two slot guys they brought in with the last class (Robert Clark and Solomon Patton). The addition of McRoy gives Florida another home-run threat on the perimeter, and his ability to run with the football (he will line up primarily as a running back for Lakeland HS this fall) is something that will be taken advantage of as well.
The addition of Ja'Juan Story gives the Gators another big, fast player at one of the outside wide receiver spots. Although still very raw in the technical aspects of playing the position, Story possesses great speed (he consistently ran the 100m in less than 11 seconds this year) and seems to have a natural aptitude for the game. He could also potentially get a look on the defensive side of the ball (as a safety or linebacker) down the road as well.
As I mentioned off the top, Kelvin Benjamin is the top remaining target on the board, and with good reason. His combination of size and athleticism is nearly unmatched, and he will have a great opportunity to contribute early wherever he goes. With his considerable length, Benjamin's ability to adjust to passes that aren't right on the money gives quarterbacks a huge margin for error. In reality, he's a guy who could come in and compete for a starting job from day one. Florida appears to be in control right now, but keep an eye on Miami, who is continuing to work him hard to consider spending the next three (maybe four) years in Coral Gables.
Sammy Watkins continues to be a target for the Gators, despite the fact he looks to be leaning towards Clemson after a weekend stay in the Palmetto State. He is, of course, the younger brother of Gators freshman DB Jaylen Watkins. George Farmer is also on the board, although he is a strong lean to the USC Trojans at the present time. Quinta Thunderburk and Kasen Williams are two other possibilities to keep an eye on.
Among the names to watch out for, I would keep my eyes peeled on Miami speedster Charles "C.J." Gaines. He really impressed during a camp performance at Florida back in June, and while he didn't dominate at Friday Night Lights last week (to be honest, I didn't think any wide receiver really did), he still has that top-end speed to make him the vertical threat who can regularly get behind the defense. Gaines also appears to have the speed and athletic ability to potentially contribute at cornerback as well.
In any case, look for Florida to take at least one more (preferably Benjamin) and don't be surprised to see wholesale changes on this depth chart from this year to next. A player or two could be moved to defense, and I would not be shocked at all to see those who don't see their number called much this year to move on to greener pastures following the season (or perhaps even sooner than that).
Current Florida depth chart:
WR
6 - Deonte Thompson (5-11, 203, R-Jr.)
7 - Justin Williams (6-1, 205, R-Sr.)
27 - Chris Dunkley (5-11, 180, Fr.)
8 - Adrian Coxson (6-1, 205, Fr.)
SLOT
3 - Chris Rainey (5-9, 178, R-Jr.)
4 - Andre Debose (6-0, 192, R-Fr.)
83 - Solomon Patton (5-9, 175, Fr.)
81 - Robert Clark (5-8, 172, Fr.)
85 - Frankie Hammond (5-11, 180, R-So.)**
WR
9 - Carl Moore (6-4, 217, R-Sr.)
82 - Omarius Hines (6-0, 220, R-So.)
18 - T.J. Lawrence (6-1, 197, R-So.)
89 - Stephen Alli (6-5, 220, R-Fr.)
84 - Quinton Dunbar (6-2, 170, Fr.)
**Frankie Hammond has not worked out with the team this summer, and is not currently on scholarship due to off-field transgressions earlier in the year.
Committed to Florida for 2011:
Javares McRoy (5-9, 170, Lakeland, Fla./Lakeland) - Jan. enrollee
Ja'Juan Story (6-3, 190, Brooksville, Fla./Nature Coast)
Top of the board:
Kelvin Benjamin (6-6, 220, Belle Glade, Fla./Glades Central)
Sammy Watkins (6-2, 190, Ft. Myers/South Ft. Myers)
George Farmer (6-2, 195, Gardena, Calif./Junipero Serra)
Quinta Funderburk (6-3, 205, Chesapeake, Va./Oscar Smith)
Kasen Williams (6-2, 205, Sammamish, Wash./Skyline)
Others to watch:
Quenton Bundrage (6-1, 180, Bradenton, Fla./Manatee)
Vincent Dallas (5-11, 180, Ellenwood, Ga./Cedar Grove
Andre Davis (6-2, 185, Tampa, Fla./Jefferson)
Durrell Eskridge (6-1, 190, Miami, Fla./Central)
Curt Evans (5-11, 175, Hollywood, Fla./Chaminade-Madonna)
Charles Gaines (5-11, 175, Miami, Fla./Jackson)
Bryan Holmes (5-11, 180, Lake Butler, Fla./Union County)
Willie Snead (6-0, 185, Muskegon Heights, Mich./Muskegon Heights)
Jesse York (6-0, 180, Lauderdale Lakes, Fla./Boyd Anderson)
Analysis: Right now the numbers all look pretty good at the wide receiver position, but Florida is aiming to take at least one more in the 2011 class, with Kelvin Benjamin being the focus of the majority of their remaining efforts at the wide receiver position.
Despite the fact Florida is in pretty good shape at the slot position, the Gators went ahead and took Javares McRoy anyways. The reasoning behind that decision simply being that the Gators feel McRoy is as good, if not better, than the two slot guys they brought in with the last class (Robert Clark and Solomon Patton). The addition of McRoy gives Florida another home-run threat on the perimeter, and his ability to run with the football (he will line up primarily as a running back for Lakeland HS this fall) is something that will be taken advantage of as well.
The addition of Ja'Juan Story gives the Gators another big, fast player at one of the outside wide receiver spots. Although still very raw in the technical aspects of playing the position, Story possesses great speed (he consistently ran the 100m in less than 11 seconds this year) and seems to have a natural aptitude for the game. He could also potentially get a look on the defensive side of the ball (as a safety or linebacker) down the road as well.
As I mentioned off the top, Kelvin Benjamin is the top remaining target on the board, and with good reason. His combination of size and athleticism is nearly unmatched, and he will have a great opportunity to contribute early wherever he goes. With his considerable length, Benjamin's ability to adjust to passes that aren't right on the money gives quarterbacks a huge margin for error. In reality, he's a guy who could come in and compete for a starting job from day one. Florida appears to be in control right now, but keep an eye on Miami, who is continuing to work him hard to consider spending the next three (maybe four) years in Coral Gables.
Sammy Watkins continues to be a target for the Gators, despite the fact he looks to be leaning towards Clemson after a weekend stay in the Palmetto State. He is, of course, the younger brother of Gators freshman DB Jaylen Watkins. George Farmer is also on the board, although he is a strong lean to the USC Trojans at the present time. Quinta Thunderburk and Kasen Williams are two other possibilities to keep an eye on.
Among the names to watch out for, I would keep my eyes peeled on Miami speedster Charles "C.J." Gaines. He really impressed during a camp performance at Florida back in June, and while he didn't dominate at Friday Night Lights last week (to be honest, I didn't think any wide receiver really did), he still has that top-end speed to make him the vertical threat who can regularly get behind the defense. Gaines also appears to have the speed and athletic ability to potentially contribute at cornerback as well.
In any case, look for Florida to take at least one more (preferably Benjamin) and don't be surprised to see wholesale changes on this depth chart from this year to next. A player or two could be moved to defense, and I would not be shocked at all to see those who don't see their number called much this year to move on to greener pastures following the season (or perhaps even sooner than that).
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Where the Gators stand: Running Back
This week, I'll be hitting each spot on the Gators depth chart with a position-by-position analysis on where Florida currently stands in regards to the Class of 2011, and what needs still have to be met across the board. This is the second part of this series, as after previewing the quarterbacks we will now turn our attention to the running backs...
Current Florida Depth Chart:
2 - Jeff Demps (5-8, 190, Jr.)
21 - Emmanuel Moody (5-11, 215, R-Sr.)
23 - Mike Gillislee (5-11, 198, So.)
33 - Mack Brown (5-11, 200, Fr.)
Top of the board:
James Wilder (6-2, 220, Tampa, Fla./Plant)
Mike Bellamy (5-10, 180, Punta Gorda, Fla./Charlotte) - Committed to CLEMSON
Mike Blakely (5-9, 195, Bradenton, Fla./Manatee)
Savon Huggins (5-11, 190, Jersey City, N.J./St. Peter's Prep)
Isaiah Crowell (5-11, 210, Columbus, Ga./Carver)
Others to watch:
Javorius "Buck" Allen (6-1, 210, Tallahassee, Fla./Lincoln)
Andrew Buie (5-9, 180, Jacksonville, Fla./Trinity Christian)
Marlin Lane (6-0, 205, Daytona Beach, Fla./Mainland) - Committed to CLEMSON
Tre Mason (5-9, 185, Lake Worth, Fla./Park Vista)
Analysis: The general feeling is that the Gators would like to take two running backs this year, and nothing about Florida's current approach to the Class of 2011 seems to indicate otherwise.
Right now, the preferred route for Florida to go would be to land James Wilder in the near future, and possibly pair him with Mike Bellamy (currently committed to Clemson, but all indications I have are that his recruitment is not over) or Mike Blakely closer to National Signing Day to give the Gators a true "Thunder and Lightning" combination.
With considerable talk that Wilder now might be leaning to Florida State following a weekend visit to Tallahassee, his impending decision becomes that much more intriguing. If Wilder were to choose Florida State (or Georgia, for that matter) in the upcoming weeks, the Gators would likely start pushing for Blakely to join this class instead. Either way, the Gators would make off with a pretty good running back if one of those two scenarios were to occur.
Personally, I've always felt that while Wilder is a good high school running back, his best spot on the college level will likely be somwhere on the defensive side of the ball, likely as a pass-rushing specialist at linebacker. Blakely is more of a true workhorse running back who can get the tough yards up the middle, but can also get outside the tackles and break loose for a big play as well. His ability as a receiver coming out of the backfield makes him even more dangerous as a truly versatile skill position player.
The real wild-card in all of this is Bellamy, who could team with either Wilder or Blakely to give Florida quite the running back combo for the Class of 2011. Although Bellamy is saying all the right things to the media in regards to his commitment to Clemson, behind the scenes, I hear he is still open to the possibility to playing elsewhere (including Gainesville). Do not be surprised at all if he were to drop the Tigers somewhere down the home stretch towards February.
If the Gators can not land Bellamy, Jacksonville product Andrew Buie could prove to be a worthy replacement. Like Bellamy, Buie adds a dynamic element to the back field, and would give Urban Meyer yet another home-run threat to get out on the perimeter and make big plays.
Other possibilities if Wilder end up somewhere other than Florida include Savon Huggins, who has previously listed Florida among his top group of schools. I would also not be surprised to see Florida make another push for Isaiah Crowell if Wilder ends up elsewhere (especially if he were to pick Georgia), although he currently claims a top two of 'Bama and UGA at the present time.
Javorius "Buck" Allen is also a possibility as well. Despite missing almost all of his junior season with a leg injury, I've long felt he is a very talented big back, and perhaps a bit overlooked in the state of Florida right now. Clemson commitment Marlin Lane could also re-emerge on the board, although he seems strong in his pledge to the Tigers at this point. Jameel Poteat seems to be fading as an option at this point, as he has not visited Gainesville.
One other prospect I have a lot of respect for is Tre Mason, Palm Beach County's leading rusher during the regular season a year ago. Currently Florida has not made much of a push for the talented back, but he is a name to keep an eye on down the stretch. He visited Florida in the spring and by all accounts enjoyed his stay in Gainesville.
But in the end, I think the position really comes down to two names -- James Wilder and Mike Blakely. The decision of Wilder, which should come in a couple of weeks will strongly dictate the direction Florida goes in from there. If Wilder picks Florida, the Gators will look for an "all-purpose" back (likely Bellamy or Buie) to compliment his between-the-tackles ability. If Wilder selects Florida State or Georgia, the Gators will put the full-court press on Blakely, and likely grab him early in the Fall. At that point, they would simply look for the best possible player (maybe a bigger back to get the tough yards in the middle, but again, Florida could go with more of a speedster/scat back too) to compliment Blakely and reload once again in the backfield heading into the 2011 season.
Current Florida Depth Chart:
2 - Jeff Demps (5-8, 190, Jr.)
21 - Emmanuel Moody (5-11, 215, R-Sr.)
23 - Mike Gillislee (5-11, 198, So.)
33 - Mack Brown (5-11, 200, Fr.)
Top of the board:
James Wilder (6-2, 220, Tampa, Fla./Plant)
Mike Bellamy (5-10, 180, Punta Gorda, Fla./Charlotte) - Committed to CLEMSON
Mike Blakely (5-9, 195, Bradenton, Fla./Manatee)
Savon Huggins (5-11, 190, Jersey City, N.J./St. Peter's Prep)
Isaiah Crowell (5-11, 210, Columbus, Ga./Carver)
Others to watch:
Javorius "Buck" Allen (6-1, 210, Tallahassee, Fla./Lincoln)
Andrew Buie (5-9, 180, Jacksonville, Fla./Trinity Christian)
Marlin Lane (6-0, 205, Daytona Beach, Fla./Mainland) - Committed to CLEMSON
Tre Mason (5-9, 185, Lake Worth, Fla./Park Vista)
Analysis: The general feeling is that the Gators would like to take two running backs this year, and nothing about Florida's current approach to the Class of 2011 seems to indicate otherwise.
Right now, the preferred route for Florida to go would be to land James Wilder in the near future, and possibly pair him with Mike Bellamy (currently committed to Clemson, but all indications I have are that his recruitment is not over) or Mike Blakely closer to National Signing Day to give the Gators a true "Thunder and Lightning" combination.
With considerable talk that Wilder now might be leaning to Florida State following a weekend visit to Tallahassee, his impending decision becomes that much more intriguing. If Wilder were to choose Florida State (or Georgia, for that matter) in the upcoming weeks, the Gators would likely start pushing for Blakely to join this class instead. Either way, the Gators would make off with a pretty good running back if one of those two scenarios were to occur.
Personally, I've always felt that while Wilder is a good high school running back, his best spot on the college level will likely be somwhere on the defensive side of the ball, likely as a pass-rushing specialist at linebacker. Blakely is more of a true workhorse running back who can get the tough yards up the middle, but can also get outside the tackles and break loose for a big play as well. His ability as a receiver coming out of the backfield makes him even more dangerous as a truly versatile skill position player.
The real wild-card in all of this is Bellamy, who could team with either Wilder or Blakely to give Florida quite the running back combo for the Class of 2011. Although Bellamy is saying all the right things to the media in regards to his commitment to Clemson, behind the scenes, I hear he is still open to the possibility to playing elsewhere (including Gainesville). Do not be surprised at all if he were to drop the Tigers somewhere down the home stretch towards February.
If the Gators can not land Bellamy, Jacksonville product Andrew Buie could prove to be a worthy replacement. Like Bellamy, Buie adds a dynamic element to the back field, and would give Urban Meyer yet another home-run threat to get out on the perimeter and make big plays.
Other possibilities if Wilder end up somewhere other than Florida include Savon Huggins, who has previously listed Florida among his top group of schools. I would also not be surprised to see Florida make another push for Isaiah Crowell if Wilder ends up elsewhere (especially if he were to pick Georgia), although he currently claims a top two of 'Bama and UGA at the present time.
Javorius "Buck" Allen is also a possibility as well. Despite missing almost all of his junior season with a leg injury, I've long felt he is a very talented big back, and perhaps a bit overlooked in the state of Florida right now. Clemson commitment Marlin Lane could also re-emerge on the board, although he seems strong in his pledge to the Tigers at this point. Jameel Poteat seems to be fading as an option at this point, as he has not visited Gainesville.
One other prospect I have a lot of respect for is Tre Mason, Palm Beach County's leading rusher during the regular season a year ago. Currently Florida has not made much of a push for the talented back, but he is a name to keep an eye on down the stretch. He visited Florida in the spring and by all accounts enjoyed his stay in Gainesville.
But in the end, I think the position really comes down to two names -- James Wilder and Mike Blakely. The decision of Wilder, which should come in a couple of weeks will strongly dictate the direction Florida goes in from there. If Wilder picks Florida, the Gators will look for an "all-purpose" back (likely Bellamy or Buie) to compliment his between-the-tackles ability. If Wilder selects Florida State or Georgia, the Gators will put the full-court press on Blakely, and likely grab him early in the Fall. At that point, they would simply look for the best possible player (maybe a bigger back to get the tough yards in the middle, but again, Florida could go with more of a speedster/scat back too) to compliment Blakely and reload once again in the backfield heading into the 2011 season.
The latest on Nick Waisome...
The recruitment of Under Armour All-American Nick Waisome (5-10, 170, Groveland, Fla./South Lake) is starting to wind down. The talented defensive back, who is expected to make a decision within the next few weeks, has narrowed his choices down and preparing to make his final decision. After participating in both Friday Night Lights and Gridiron Kings this weekend, Waisome showed why he is still one of the top secondary prospects in the entire country. He would give Team Southeast quite the tandem of cornerbacks out on the edge along with fellow Florida native Marcus Roberson (6-1, 175, Ft. Lauderdale, Fla./St. Thomas Aquinas), as the Southeast easily rolled to the Gridiron Kings championship.
At this time, Waisome is currently down to five schools -- Florida, Florida State, Georgia, LSU and South Carolina. At this point, however, it looks like this is clearly turning into a two-team race, with Florida and Florida State at the top. Waisome had a chance to spend some time at both schools this week, as his planned decision date is now looking him squarely in the eye.
"I have a great relationship with Coach (Teryl) Austin," Waisome said of the Florida defensive coordinator/cornerbacks coach. "He has a great personality. It reminds me a lot of the coaches at my high school. It was good to see how he coaches (at FNL), and see what it would be like working under him at the next level."
Waisome, who had a great bond with former Florida cornerbacks coach Vance Bedford, says that Austin has done a fine job stepping into the position in Gainesville, and taking over the recruitment of one of the top defensive back prospects in the state of Florida.
"He reminds me of Bedford in some ways," Waisome explained of Austin. "But he has his own way of doing things too -- his own swag -- which I like to see."
Last week gave Waisome an opportunity to take another trip to Tallahassee. He admitted the Seminoles are also making a strong final push to pick up his commitment when Waisome goes public with a decision.
"I got to talk to Jimbo and Coach Stoops," Waisome said. "I had some one-on-one time with them. Talk about the schemes their going to run, and get to know those guys a little better."
Although Waisome wasn't overly happy with his performance on Friday, he felt he did a good job rebounding on Sunday, as he got in on the interception parade for Team Southeast, as he made a pick against Team Southwest that went back over 80 yards for a touchdown -- one of the many defensive highlights of the day.
"It was kind of 'iffy' at Friday Night Lights, but I came out here today and wanted to get in on the action," he said. "I think I did just that."
So, while one of the top cornerback prospects starts to look towards making a decision, the real question remains -- will it be the Gators, or the Noles? Or, one of the other teams in his top group -- Georgia, LSU or South Carolina -- come in and pull the upset? It shouldn't be long now before we have the answer, as one team will add a big boost to their secondary with the addition of Waisome.
At this time, Waisome is currently down to five schools -- Florida, Florida State, Georgia, LSU and South Carolina. At this point, however, it looks like this is clearly turning into a two-team race, with Florida and Florida State at the top. Waisome had a chance to spend some time at both schools this week, as his planned decision date is now looking him squarely in the eye.
"I have a great relationship with Coach (Teryl) Austin," Waisome said of the Florida defensive coordinator/cornerbacks coach. "He has a great personality. It reminds me a lot of the coaches at my high school. It was good to see how he coaches (at FNL), and see what it would be like working under him at the next level."
Waisome, who had a great bond with former Florida cornerbacks coach Vance Bedford, says that Austin has done a fine job stepping into the position in Gainesville, and taking over the recruitment of one of the top defensive back prospects in the state of Florida.
"He reminds me of Bedford in some ways," Waisome explained of Austin. "But he has his own way of doing things too -- his own swag -- which I like to see."
Last week gave Waisome an opportunity to take another trip to Tallahassee. He admitted the Seminoles are also making a strong final push to pick up his commitment when Waisome goes public with a decision.
"I got to talk to Jimbo and Coach Stoops," Waisome said. "I had some one-on-one time with them. Talk about the schemes their going to run, and get to know those guys a little better."
Although Waisome wasn't overly happy with his performance on Friday, he felt he did a good job rebounding on Sunday, as he got in on the interception parade for Team Southeast, as he made a pick against Team Southwest that went back over 80 yards for a touchdown -- one of the many defensive highlights of the day.
"It was kind of 'iffy' at Friday Night Lights, but I came out here today and wanted to get in on the action," he said. "I think I did just that."
So, while one of the top cornerback prospects starts to look towards making a decision, the real question remains -- will it be the Gators, or the Noles? Or, one of the other teams in his top group -- Georgia, LSU or South Carolina -- come in and pull the upset? It shouldn't be long now before we have the answer, as one team will add a big boost to their secondary with the addition of Waisome.
Where the Gators stand: Quarterback
This week, I'll be hitting each spot on the Gators depth chart with a position-by-position analysis on where Florida currently stands in regards to the Class of 2011, and what needs still have to be met across the board. We'll start off today with the Quarterbacks...
Current Florida depth chart:
12 - John Brantley (6-3, 225, R-Jr.)
13 - Trey Burton (6-2, 220, Fr.)
10 - Tyler Murphy (6-1, 195, Fr.)
Committed to Florida for 2011:
Jeff Driskel (6-4, 225, Oviedo, Fla./Hagerty) -- Jan. enrollee
Other Prospects on the board:
Jerrard Randall (6-1, 180, Hollywood, Fla./Chaminade-Madonna) - Committed to OREGON
Phillip Ely (6-1, 188, Tampa, Fla./Plant)
Analysis: At this point, while the word in Gainesville seems to indicate that Florida will stand pat with just Driskel in this class, I wouldn't be so sure that this is the case come next February. There are too many variables here for Florida to simply ignore the idea of taking a second quarterback.
For one, Tyler Murphy was a late addition to the Class of 2010, and he is still very much an unproven commodity. His future could lie at another position (WR or S, perhaps?) and no one will really know what his game is all about until he hits the field for fall camp next week.
Secondly, what if John Brantley goes nuts this season, puts up video game numbers, and emerges as a projected top-ten pick in the NFL Draft next April? It's an unlikely scenario, but one that shouldn't be considered out of the realm of possibility. Look at USC, who just had to deal with a similar situation in 2008 when highly-touted first-year starter Mark Sanchez emerged as big NFL QB prospect, and he subsequently left for the big bucks and bright lights of New York City. The Trojans subsequently had to turn to true freshman Matt Barkley as the starter in 2009, when he could have most certainly benefited from a year spent on the sidelines. The Gators could be in for a similar pickle if Brantley performs above expectations this fall.
In any case, the Gators will continue evaluating quarterback prospects out there, in the event that either Murphy shows he will not be able to contribute at the QB position against SEC competition, or Brantley blows everyone out of the water.
Ely and Randall are really the only two prospects left on the board who Florida has evaluated and stayed in contact with (Randall is currently committed to Oregon, but I tend to think he could be had if the right team pushes for him before National Signing Day). The reality though, is that if it became apparent that the Gators needed another quarterback for 2011, their board would expand greatly almost immediately.
It seems that Scot Loeffler really hit the jackpot with Jeff Driskel back in April. The Gators, who started recruiting Driskel in earnest late last summer, sort of rolled the dice with a signal-caller who has not put up big numbers at the high school level (in 2009, Driskel threw for 1,427 yards, 11 touchdowns with six interceptions while completing just 50 percent of his passes). However, the Gators knew that Driskel didn't have a lot of talent around him. They continued to evaluate his abilities as a passer -- which are considerable -- and when it came time for Driskel to make the decision earlier this spring, the choice was clear.
Following his MVP performance at the Elite 11 Quarterback Camp last week, Driskel has emerged as one of the top quarterback prospects, not only for this year, but in recent memory as well. The National Director of ESPN Recruiting, Tom Luginbill, says that Driskel "might be the most physically talented passer we have seen in this event in the past six years." A comparison that would put Driskel on the same level with quarterbacks such as Matthew Stafford (#1 pick in the 2009 NFL Draft), Tim Tebow (#25 pick in the 2010 NFL Draft) and Jake Locker (who will likely be a first-round pick in the 2011 NFL Draft).
But as impressive as that is, Driskel still has plenty to work on. He is very much an unfinished product at the quarterback position. And if any little thing happens to the remainder of the Florida QB depth chart, Loeffler & Co. will be hitting the trail looking for another youngster to join Driskel in fall camp when August of 2011 rolls around.
Current Florida depth chart:
12 - John Brantley (6-3, 225, R-Jr.)
13 - Trey Burton (6-2, 220, Fr.)
10 - Tyler Murphy (6-1, 195, Fr.)
Committed to Florida for 2011:
Jeff Driskel (6-4, 225, Oviedo, Fla./Hagerty) -- Jan. enrollee
Other Prospects on the board:
Jerrard Randall (6-1, 180, Hollywood, Fla./Chaminade-Madonna) - Committed to OREGON
Phillip Ely (6-1, 188, Tampa, Fla./Plant)
Analysis: At this point, while the word in Gainesville seems to indicate that Florida will stand pat with just Driskel in this class, I wouldn't be so sure that this is the case come next February. There are too many variables here for Florida to simply ignore the idea of taking a second quarterback.
For one, Tyler Murphy was a late addition to the Class of 2010, and he is still very much an unproven commodity. His future could lie at another position (WR or S, perhaps?) and no one will really know what his game is all about until he hits the field for fall camp next week.
Secondly, what if John Brantley goes nuts this season, puts up video game numbers, and emerges as a projected top-ten pick in the NFL Draft next April? It's an unlikely scenario, but one that shouldn't be considered out of the realm of possibility. Look at USC, who just had to deal with a similar situation in 2008 when highly-touted first-year starter Mark Sanchez emerged as big NFL QB prospect, and he subsequently left for the big bucks and bright lights of New York City. The Trojans subsequently had to turn to true freshman Matt Barkley as the starter in 2009, when he could have most certainly benefited from a year spent on the sidelines. The Gators could be in for a similar pickle if Brantley performs above expectations this fall.
In any case, the Gators will continue evaluating quarterback prospects out there, in the event that either Murphy shows he will not be able to contribute at the QB position against SEC competition, or Brantley blows everyone out of the water.
Ely and Randall are really the only two prospects left on the board who Florida has evaluated and stayed in contact with (Randall is currently committed to Oregon, but I tend to think he could be had if the right team pushes for him before National Signing Day). The reality though, is that if it became apparent that the Gators needed another quarterback for 2011, their board would expand greatly almost immediately.
It seems that Scot Loeffler really hit the jackpot with Jeff Driskel back in April. The Gators, who started recruiting Driskel in earnest late last summer, sort of rolled the dice with a signal-caller who has not put up big numbers at the high school level (in 2009, Driskel threw for 1,427 yards, 11 touchdowns with six interceptions while completing just 50 percent of his passes). However, the Gators knew that Driskel didn't have a lot of talent around him. They continued to evaluate his abilities as a passer -- which are considerable -- and when it came time for Driskel to make the decision earlier this spring, the choice was clear.
Following his MVP performance at the Elite 11 Quarterback Camp last week, Driskel has emerged as one of the top quarterback prospects, not only for this year, but in recent memory as well. The National Director of ESPN Recruiting, Tom Luginbill, says that Driskel "might be the most physically talented passer we have seen in this event in the past six years." A comparison that would put Driskel on the same level with quarterbacks such as Matthew Stafford (#1 pick in the 2009 NFL Draft), Tim Tebow (#25 pick in the 2010 NFL Draft) and Jake Locker (who will likely be a first-round pick in the 2011 NFL Draft).
But as impressive as that is, Driskel still has plenty to work on. He is very much an unfinished product at the quarterback position. And if any little thing happens to the remainder of the Florida QB depth chart, Loeffler & Co. will be hitting the trail looking for another youngster to join Driskel in fall camp when August of 2011 rolls around.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Cameron Clear impresses at Friday Night Lights...
One of the prospects who clearly stood out among the throng of high school football players at the Swamp on Friday night was the who actually stood out above the crowd. Monster tight end Cameron Clear (6-6, 265, Memphis, Tenn./Central) certainly made an impression on the field of Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, drawing the interest of Urban Meyer, who made sure to walk over and greet #224 during warm-ups, not even waiting until the real work of Florida's Friday Night Lights elite prospect camp began.
Clear followed up that performance in Gainesville with a solid showing at the Gridiron Kings 7-on-7 tournament in Lake Buena Vista, where he made an impact at tight end for Team Southwest. Despite being a late addition to the roster on Sunday, Clear proved to be a big target, who showed good hands and athleticism for his size. He didn't get a ton of opportunities during the event, but he did make it count when his number was called.
Overall, it had to be considered a successful trip for Clear, who managed to earn a verbal offer from the Gators, on the basis of his showing in Gainesville. After staying in Gainesville for an extra day on Saturday and meeting with the coaching staff, Florida officially jumped into the Cameron Clear sweepstakes.
"Coach Meyer just told me they wanted me," Clear said of the offer he picked up from the Gators this weekend.
It was enough to propel the Gators into the mix on Clear's list of top schools for the time being.
"Right now I like Alabama, Duke, Florida, Ole Miss and Tennessee (in no particular order)," Clear said of his current favorites.
There is no timetable currently set for Clear to narrow down his list or make a decision. But if his first impressions of Florida are any indication, the Gators could be strongly in the mix to land his commitment from here on out.
"I love it," Clear said of Gainesville. "I feel like I could live here for college."
However, the big catch for Clear? Florida would prefer to bring him as an offensive tackle, the position he will likely end up at in college. Clear, of course, would like a shot at tight end. But for now, the Gators are very much in the mix, and will receive an official visit from the talented Tennessee if things stand as they currently do.
Clear followed up that performance in Gainesville with a solid showing at the Gridiron Kings 7-on-7 tournament in Lake Buena Vista, where he made an impact at tight end for Team Southwest. Despite being a late addition to the roster on Sunday, Clear proved to be a big target, who showed good hands and athleticism for his size. He didn't get a ton of opportunities during the event, but he did make it count when his number was called.
Overall, it had to be considered a successful trip for Clear, who managed to earn a verbal offer from the Gators, on the basis of his showing in Gainesville. After staying in Gainesville for an extra day on Saturday and meeting with the coaching staff, Florida officially jumped into the Cameron Clear sweepstakes.
"Coach Meyer just told me they wanted me," Clear said of the offer he picked up from the Gators this weekend.
It was enough to propel the Gators into the mix on Clear's list of top schools for the time being.
"Right now I like Alabama, Duke, Florida, Ole Miss and Tennessee (in no particular order)," Clear said of his current favorites.
There is no timetable currently set for Clear to narrow down his list or make a decision. But if his first impressions of Florida are any indication, the Gators could be strongly in the mix to land his commitment from here on out.
"I love it," Clear said of Gainesville. "I feel like I could live here for college."
However, the big catch for Clear? Florida would prefer to bring him as an offensive tackle, the position he will likely end up at in college. Clear, of course, would like a shot at tight end. But for now, the Gators are very much in the mix, and will receive an official visit from the talented Tennessee if things stand as they currently do.
The Florida preseason All-State team...
It's kind of fun to put lists like this together. After watching my last football-related events of the summer at Friday Night Lights (Gainesville) and Gridiron Kings (Lake Buena Vista), I decided to put together my team of 24 top prospects (but not necessarily the top 24) from around the state for this post. Consider this the introduction to Team Florida...
Offense
QB - Jeff Driskel (6-4, 225, Oviedo/Hagerty - Committed to FLORIDA)
- He shined at the Elite 11 in California, earning MVP honors. While Teddy Bridgewater has clearly produced more on the field, it's hard to ignore the physical tools of Driskel. He has as much raw talent at the position as any prospect ever to emerge from the state of Florida.
RB - Mike Bellamy (5-10, 180, Punta Gorda/Charlotte - Committed to CLEMSON)
- Speed, speed, speed. A state champion in both the 200 meters as a sophomore, and the 100 meters as a junior, Bellamy definitely brings a home-run element to the backfield. He is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. He is a fairly tough runner between the tackles as well. Developing as a receiver coming out of the backfield, which will only make him that much more dangerous.
RB - Mike Blakely (5-9, 195, Bradenton/Manatee)
It's hard not be a big fan of Blakely. Built like a bowling ball, Blakely does most of his damage running between the tackles. However, he is an excellent receiver as well, and create quite a bit of havoc in the passing game. His speed is underrated as well. Overall, a fantastic all-around running back.
WR - Kelvin Benjamin (6-6, 220, Belle Glade/Glades Central)
- Some are not high on Benjamin, but his skill-set isn't something you find just everyday. His length is something that will make him an absolute mismatch in the passing game when he moves on to the college level. For anyone who thinks he will be a tight end, think again. His excellent athleticism will keep him at wide receiver for a long time. With his tremendous size, Benjamin is a quarterback's dream, as he gives any signal-caller a large margin for error when they are looking his way.
WR - Sammy Watkins (6-2, 190, Ft. Myers/South Ft. Myers)
- Fast, but physical wide receiver, who has the type of frame that suggests he will play in the 210-220 pound range in college. A state finalist in the 100 meters in Class 3A, his speed is top-notch. Highly productive, and can make an impact in the return game as well.
TE - Nick O'Leary (6-4, 230, Palm Beach Gardens/Dwyer)
- I'm not sure there is a better football prospect in the state than O'Leary. His ability to be a game-changer at the tight end position is so uncommon. His hands are superb, his ability to contribute in all facets of special teams is intriguing (and rare), but it's his mindset between the white lines that makes O'Leary so impressive. He doesn't take any crap off of anybody and he has the presence to back it up as well. Phenomenal football player.
OL - Tyler Moore (6-6, 300, Clearwater/Countryside - Committed to NEBRASKA)
- Hard to find many holes in the game of Moore. He is what colleges look for in the offensive tackle position. Big, strong, and mobile, Moore figures to be an early contributor out in Lincoln. All in all, the top offensive line prospect in the state of Florida, without a doubt.
OL - Bobby Hart (6-4, 295, Ft. Lauderdale/St. Thomas Aquinas - Committed to FSU)
- While Moore may be a strong #1 on the offensive line, Hart has emerged as the clear #2 prospect in the state. Still developing, and showing an excellent aptitude for learning and continuing to adjust to the tackle position at Aquinas this spring, Hart figures to have quite a bit of untapped potential as an offensive lineman after playing primarily defense at Cardinal Gibbons before transferring over this offseason. Hart could project at guard, center, or right tackle on the next level.
OL - Errin Joe (6-3, 285, Lakeland/Lake Gibson)
- Great intangibles, fine academic performance, and a good football mind make Joe the perfect candidate to end up at center in college. He continues to be unheralded in recruiting circles, but he has the look of a big-time player on the next level.
OL - Marcus Jackson (6-2, 295, Vero Beach/Vero Beach - Committed to MIAMI)
Two-way lineman doesn't exactly fit the "prototype" to play along the offensive line, but he is extremely effective. Has the potential to contribute on the defensive line as well. Figures to project as a guard or center if he plays on offense at the next level.
OL - Giorgio Newberry (6-6, 255, Ft. Pierce/Central)
Although Newberry seems to prefer defense, it's hard not to see him ending up on offense at the next level. He has all the makings (good size, long arms, good athleticism) to end up a very effective left tackle in time.
AP - A.C. Leonard (6-3, 235, Jacksonville/University Christian - Committed to FLORIDA)
As good as Nick O'Leary is, a case can be made that Leonard is actually the better tight end. Blessed with a wide body, fantastic coordination, and excellent hands, Leonard is such a threat in the passing game. He truly plays the game like a converted power forward -- not all that unlike San Diego Chargers tight end Antonio Gates, who made the transition from college basketball player to NFL star. Leonard is also an accomplished defensive player, as he racked up 21 sacks as a defensive end/linebacker as a junior at Ribault High School in 2009.
Defense
DL - Curt Maggitt (6-3, 215, Palm Beach Gardens/Dwyer)
- Maggitt has racked up 30 sacks in the past two years, as he has developed a reputation as one of the top pass rushers in the state of Florida. Although still a bit undersized, Maggitt is quickly adding weight and bulk onto his frame as he prepares to move on to the next level. Could end up at linebacker as well. A torn labrum left Maggitt at less than 100 percent in 2009, as he missed all or parts of four games. Corrective surgery in the offseason should have him fully healthy in time for fall camp. He has a chance to put together a huge senior campaign for the Panthers.
DL - Tim Jernigan (6-3, 280, Lake City/Columbia)
- From what I've seen of Jernigan, he has the same type of ability and presence to be as an effective of a pass-rusher from the interior of the defensive line as Warren Sapp was in his heyday as a star tackle for the Miami Hurricanes and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Granted, Sapp played primarily as a tight end in high school before outgrowing the position. However, Jernigan has all of the ingredients to make a similar impact when he moves on to college as well. While his strength is top-notch, I think it's his speed and agility, at 280 pounds, which makes him such an elite prospect for the defensive line.
DL - Aaron Lynch (6-5, 255, Cape Coral/Island Coast)
- An intriguing prospect, Lynch looks to have the frame to eventually end up over 300 pounds in college. Moves well for a big guy. It's easy to see him ending up at offensive tackle as well. With his size/speed combination, playing defensive end in the 3-4 (as he potentially would at Notre Dame) would be a good fit for his talents as well. In all, Lynch is a big, versatile athlete who has the ability to contribute at a number of positions down the road.
DL - Bryant "B.J." Dubose (6-4, 235, Oakland Park/Northeast)
- This pick is a bit more of a leap of faith for me. Dubose has all the talent in the world, he just needs to start playing with a bit more consistency. Allowing that motor to run wide open would make Dubose as good of a prospect as you will find in the Southeast along the defensive line. Athletic and fast, Dubose can get to the quarterback in the hurry. He has the potential to play in college around 275-285 pounds, which would allow him to be a big defensive end or defensive tackle. Like Lynch, he could also be a good fit in the 3-4 as a defensive end.
LB - Tony Steward (6-1, 225, St. Augustine/Menendez)
- Physically, Steward is as impressive of a prospect as can be found at the linebacker position. However, it's his play that really stands out. Steward is very fluid and will be able to contribute in coverage on the next level. He really flies to the ball, and has the look of a big-time playmaker at the Weakside linebacker position. It's really hard to find much not to like about the game of Steward. To me, he is right up there with Christian Jones from the 2010 class, and probably a better prospect at this point in the game than Jeff Luc.
LB - Kent Turene (6-2, 230, Lauderdale Lakes/Boyd Anderson - Committed to USC)
- A big, physical, middle linebacker prospect. Turene really has the look of someone who can command the defense, and be a physical presence in the middle against the run.
LB - James Wilder (6-2, 220, Tampa/Plant)
- I've always felt that Wilder was a better fit as a pass-rushing LB, as opposed to playing RB (his preferred position). It will be interesting to see what happens in regards to the position he plays in college. He will get first crack on offense, but is that the best fit for him? Only time will tell...
DB - Marcus Roberson (6-1, 175, Ft. Lauderdale/St. Thomas Aquinas)
- A tremendous all-around defensive back prospect. Roberson has the range to be effective at free safety, but the cover skills to be an effective big corner as well. Physical and tough, Roberson brings a unique presence to the secondary which is not all that unlike what Janoris Jenkins showed at the high school level -- although Roberson is a few inches taller.
DB - Ha'sean Clinton-Dix (6-2, 205, Orlando/Dr. Phillips- Committed to ALABAMA)
- Simply put, Clinton-Dix is everything you want in a free safety prospect. Good size, the ability to go out and play man-on-man coverage on a receiver, strong in run support. In essence, he is a true all-around playmaker at the safety. He is a the prototype of what a free safety should look like.
DB - Gerrod Holliman (6-0, 185, Miami/Southridge - Committed to OLE MISS)
- Another safety who shows great coverage skills, Holliman has flown under the radar a bit for much of the year, but he brings great range to the safety position from his spot on the field. A big steal for the Ole Miss Rebels if it sticks.
DB - Nick Waisome (5-10, 170, Groveland/South Lake)
- Technically sound, and well-versed in the art of covering wide receivers, Waisome has long been regarded as the premier cornerback prospect in the state of Florida. While he is now receiving a challenge from Roberson in that regard, what isn't in doubt is the fact his ability to lock onto talented wide receivers is second to none.
AP - Karlos Williams (6-1, 215, Davenport/Ridge - Committed to FSU)
- Williams is an intriguing prospect, in that he shows the break on the ball and speed (10.8 seconds in the 100 meters) to stick at safety, while he has the size and frame to suggest that he could eventually end up at linebacker in time. Regardless, Williams is a playmaker, and has really started to make a push as one of the top prospects in the state of Florida.
Offense
QB - Jeff Driskel (6-4, 225, Oviedo/Hagerty - Committed to FLORIDA)
- He shined at the Elite 11 in California, earning MVP honors. While Teddy Bridgewater has clearly produced more on the field, it's hard to ignore the physical tools of Driskel. He has as much raw talent at the position as any prospect ever to emerge from the state of Florida.
RB - Mike Bellamy (5-10, 180, Punta Gorda/Charlotte - Committed to CLEMSON)
- Speed, speed, speed. A state champion in both the 200 meters as a sophomore, and the 100 meters as a junior, Bellamy definitely brings a home-run element to the backfield. He is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. He is a fairly tough runner between the tackles as well. Developing as a receiver coming out of the backfield, which will only make him that much more dangerous.
RB - Mike Blakely (5-9, 195, Bradenton/Manatee)
It's hard not be a big fan of Blakely. Built like a bowling ball, Blakely does most of his damage running between the tackles. However, he is an excellent receiver as well, and create quite a bit of havoc in the passing game. His speed is underrated as well. Overall, a fantastic all-around running back.
WR - Kelvin Benjamin (6-6, 220, Belle Glade/Glades Central)
- Some are not high on Benjamin, but his skill-set isn't something you find just everyday. His length is something that will make him an absolute mismatch in the passing game when he moves on to the college level. For anyone who thinks he will be a tight end, think again. His excellent athleticism will keep him at wide receiver for a long time. With his tremendous size, Benjamin is a quarterback's dream, as he gives any signal-caller a large margin for error when they are looking his way.
WR - Sammy Watkins (6-2, 190, Ft. Myers/South Ft. Myers)
- Fast, but physical wide receiver, who has the type of frame that suggests he will play in the 210-220 pound range in college. A state finalist in the 100 meters in Class 3A, his speed is top-notch. Highly productive, and can make an impact in the return game as well.
TE - Nick O'Leary (6-4, 230, Palm Beach Gardens/Dwyer)
- I'm not sure there is a better football prospect in the state than O'Leary. His ability to be a game-changer at the tight end position is so uncommon. His hands are superb, his ability to contribute in all facets of special teams is intriguing (and rare), but it's his mindset between the white lines that makes O'Leary so impressive. He doesn't take any crap off of anybody and he has the presence to back it up as well. Phenomenal football player.
OL - Tyler Moore (6-6, 300, Clearwater/Countryside - Committed to NEBRASKA)
- Hard to find many holes in the game of Moore. He is what colleges look for in the offensive tackle position. Big, strong, and mobile, Moore figures to be an early contributor out in Lincoln. All in all, the top offensive line prospect in the state of Florida, without a doubt.
OL - Bobby Hart (6-4, 295, Ft. Lauderdale/St. Thomas Aquinas - Committed to FSU)
- While Moore may be a strong #1 on the offensive line, Hart has emerged as the clear #2 prospect in the state. Still developing, and showing an excellent aptitude for learning and continuing to adjust to the tackle position at Aquinas this spring, Hart figures to have quite a bit of untapped potential as an offensive lineman after playing primarily defense at Cardinal Gibbons before transferring over this offseason. Hart could project at guard, center, or right tackle on the next level.
OL - Errin Joe (6-3, 285, Lakeland/Lake Gibson)
- Great intangibles, fine academic performance, and a good football mind make Joe the perfect candidate to end up at center in college. He continues to be unheralded in recruiting circles, but he has the look of a big-time player on the next level.
OL - Marcus Jackson (6-2, 295, Vero Beach/Vero Beach - Committed to MIAMI)
Two-way lineman doesn't exactly fit the "prototype" to play along the offensive line, but he is extremely effective. Has the potential to contribute on the defensive line as well. Figures to project as a guard or center if he plays on offense at the next level.
OL - Giorgio Newberry (6-6, 255, Ft. Pierce/Central)
Although Newberry seems to prefer defense, it's hard not to see him ending up on offense at the next level. He has all the makings (good size, long arms, good athleticism) to end up a very effective left tackle in time.
AP - A.C. Leonard (6-3, 235, Jacksonville/University Christian - Committed to FLORIDA)
As good as Nick O'Leary is, a case can be made that Leonard is actually the better tight end. Blessed with a wide body, fantastic coordination, and excellent hands, Leonard is such a threat in the passing game. He truly plays the game like a converted power forward -- not all that unlike San Diego Chargers tight end Antonio Gates, who made the transition from college basketball player to NFL star. Leonard is also an accomplished defensive player, as he racked up 21 sacks as a defensive end/linebacker as a junior at Ribault High School in 2009.
Defense
DL - Curt Maggitt (6-3, 215, Palm Beach Gardens/Dwyer)
- Maggitt has racked up 30 sacks in the past two years, as he has developed a reputation as one of the top pass rushers in the state of Florida. Although still a bit undersized, Maggitt is quickly adding weight and bulk onto his frame as he prepares to move on to the next level. Could end up at linebacker as well. A torn labrum left Maggitt at less than 100 percent in 2009, as he missed all or parts of four games. Corrective surgery in the offseason should have him fully healthy in time for fall camp. He has a chance to put together a huge senior campaign for the Panthers.
DL - Tim Jernigan (6-3, 280, Lake City/Columbia)
- From what I've seen of Jernigan, he has the same type of ability and presence to be as an effective of a pass-rusher from the interior of the defensive line as Warren Sapp was in his heyday as a star tackle for the Miami Hurricanes and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Granted, Sapp played primarily as a tight end in high school before outgrowing the position. However, Jernigan has all of the ingredients to make a similar impact when he moves on to college as well. While his strength is top-notch, I think it's his speed and agility, at 280 pounds, which makes him such an elite prospect for the defensive line.
DL - Aaron Lynch (6-5, 255, Cape Coral/Island Coast)
- An intriguing prospect, Lynch looks to have the frame to eventually end up over 300 pounds in college. Moves well for a big guy. It's easy to see him ending up at offensive tackle as well. With his size/speed combination, playing defensive end in the 3-4 (as he potentially would at Notre Dame) would be a good fit for his talents as well. In all, Lynch is a big, versatile athlete who has the ability to contribute at a number of positions down the road.
DL - Bryant "B.J." Dubose (6-4, 235, Oakland Park/Northeast)
- This pick is a bit more of a leap of faith for me. Dubose has all the talent in the world, he just needs to start playing with a bit more consistency. Allowing that motor to run wide open would make Dubose as good of a prospect as you will find in the Southeast along the defensive line. Athletic and fast, Dubose can get to the quarterback in the hurry. He has the potential to play in college around 275-285 pounds, which would allow him to be a big defensive end or defensive tackle. Like Lynch, he could also be a good fit in the 3-4 as a defensive end.
LB - Tony Steward (6-1, 225, St. Augustine/Menendez)
- Physically, Steward is as impressive of a prospect as can be found at the linebacker position. However, it's his play that really stands out. Steward is very fluid and will be able to contribute in coverage on the next level. He really flies to the ball, and has the look of a big-time playmaker at the Weakside linebacker position. It's really hard to find much not to like about the game of Steward. To me, he is right up there with Christian Jones from the 2010 class, and probably a better prospect at this point in the game than Jeff Luc.
LB - Kent Turene (6-2, 230, Lauderdale Lakes/Boyd Anderson - Committed to USC)
- A big, physical, middle linebacker prospect. Turene really has the look of someone who can command the defense, and be a physical presence in the middle against the run.
LB - James Wilder (6-2, 220, Tampa/Plant)
- I've always felt that Wilder was a better fit as a pass-rushing LB, as opposed to playing RB (his preferred position). It will be interesting to see what happens in regards to the position he plays in college. He will get first crack on offense, but is that the best fit for him? Only time will tell...
DB - Marcus Roberson (6-1, 175, Ft. Lauderdale/St. Thomas Aquinas)
- A tremendous all-around defensive back prospect. Roberson has the range to be effective at free safety, but the cover skills to be an effective big corner as well. Physical and tough, Roberson brings a unique presence to the secondary which is not all that unlike what Janoris Jenkins showed at the high school level -- although Roberson is a few inches taller.
DB - Ha'sean Clinton-Dix (6-2, 205, Orlando/Dr. Phillips- Committed to ALABAMA)
- Simply put, Clinton-Dix is everything you want in a free safety prospect. Good size, the ability to go out and play man-on-man coverage on a receiver, strong in run support. In essence, he is a true all-around playmaker at the safety. He is a the prototype of what a free safety should look like.
DB - Gerrod Holliman (6-0, 185, Miami/Southridge - Committed to OLE MISS)
- Another safety who shows great coverage skills, Holliman has flown under the radar a bit for much of the year, but he brings great range to the safety position from his spot on the field. A big steal for the Ole Miss Rebels if it sticks.
DB - Nick Waisome (5-10, 170, Groveland/South Lake)
- Technically sound, and well-versed in the art of covering wide receivers, Waisome has long been regarded as the premier cornerback prospect in the state of Florida. While he is now receiving a challenge from Roberson in that regard, what isn't in doubt is the fact his ability to lock onto talented wide receivers is second to none.
AP - Karlos Williams (6-1, 215, Davenport/Ridge - Committed to FSU)
- Williams is an intriguing prospect, in that he shows the break on the ball and speed (10.8 seconds in the 100 meters) to stick at safety, while he has the size and frame to suggest that he could eventually end up at linebacker in time. Regardless, Williams is a playmaker, and has really started to make a push as one of the top prospects in the state of Florida.
Trip Thurman talks Florida commitment...
I had a chance to catch up with monster offensive lineman Trip Thurman (6-6, 310, Dover, Del./Dover) after Florida's Friday Night Lights event in Gainesville this past weekend. After making the trip down to the Sunshine State on Thursday, Thurman went ahead with a long-expected public commitment to the Gators. Despite his deep ties to the University of Tennessee football program, there is no looking back for Thurman at this point, as he seems to be at peace with his decision to work under offensive line coach Steve Addazio for the next few years.
First off, let me just say that while many times the heights and weights of a prospect tend to be exaggerated, that is NOT the case at all with Thurman. He is simply enormous, and absolutely looks the part of how a Florida offensive lineman should be proportioned. I was a little surprised by just how big Thurman actually is, even though I had a chance to see him in person at a spring practice at Florida earlier in the year. He's pretty well put-together too. A lot of guys who weigh over 300 pounds at the high school tend to be a bit sloppy. Not Thurman. He looks like a guy who could take the field at the college level right now and hold his own (not to say he actually could, I have never seen him play, but I think you get my point...)
"The Swamp is the place to be when the lights come on," Thurman said of Florida. "I feel like have a big monkey off of my shoulders. I wanted to get this done before the season so I can just focus on that and keeping my grades up."
Even despite the family connections to the University of Tennessee, Thurman's parents were 100 percent behind his decision to go to Florida. Thurman himself said the decision was possible, in part, because of the business-like attitude he took towards his recruitment when schools started showing interest in him as a junior.
"I was a big Vols fan growing up," he said of his college allegiance growing up. "But when the recruiting process started, I didn't have aspirations of going to any one particular school."
However, it wasn't until a strong performance at a session of the Urban Meyer Football Camp in Gainesville last month that Florida became the odds-on favorite to land his commitment.
"In Delaware, you don't get much competition," Thurman noted of the landscape of high school football in his home state. "In camp (at Florida last month), I came down and I proved myself to (Coach Addazio)."
Although it's not entirely clear yet where exactly Thurman will line up, it's clear that with his size, he will have an excellent shot at finding his way onto the field for the Gators.
"They want me to play tackle," he said of the position he will play for Florida. "I'm not sure if it's right or left yet. I guess I'll find out when I get to work down here."
Regardless, if there is any concern of a possible commitment flip back to Tennessee down the stretch, there doesn't seem to be much indication on the part of Thurman that there is even a slight possibility that could happen.
"Knowing the situation that happened up at Tennessee, I think I can develop a strong hatred of that program," he said with a laugh.
Spoken just like a future Florida Gators, who will see some of his toughest battles against the Vols each September to open up play in the Southeastern Conference.
First off, let me just say that while many times the heights and weights of a prospect tend to be exaggerated, that is NOT the case at all with Thurman. He is simply enormous, and absolutely looks the part of how a Florida offensive lineman should be proportioned. I was a little surprised by just how big Thurman actually is, even though I had a chance to see him in person at a spring practice at Florida earlier in the year. He's pretty well put-together too. A lot of guys who weigh over 300 pounds at the high school tend to be a bit sloppy. Not Thurman. He looks like a guy who could take the field at the college level right now and hold his own (not to say he actually could, I have never seen him play, but I think you get my point...)
"The Swamp is the place to be when the lights come on," Thurman said of Florida. "I feel like have a big monkey off of my shoulders. I wanted to get this done before the season so I can just focus on that and keeping my grades up."
Even despite the family connections to the University of Tennessee, Thurman's parents were 100 percent behind his decision to go to Florida. Thurman himself said the decision was possible, in part, because of the business-like attitude he took towards his recruitment when schools started showing interest in him as a junior.
"I was a big Vols fan growing up," he said of his college allegiance growing up. "But when the recruiting process started, I didn't have aspirations of going to any one particular school."
However, it wasn't until a strong performance at a session of the Urban Meyer Football Camp in Gainesville last month that Florida became the odds-on favorite to land his commitment.
"In Delaware, you don't get much competition," Thurman noted of the landscape of high school football in his home state. "In camp (at Florida last month), I came down and I proved myself to (Coach Addazio)."
Although it's not entirely clear yet where exactly Thurman will line up, it's clear that with his size, he will have an excellent shot at finding his way onto the field for the Gators.
"They want me to play tackle," he said of the position he will play for Florida. "I'm not sure if it's right or left yet. I guess I'll find out when I get to work down here."
Regardless, if there is any concern of a possible commitment flip back to Tennessee down the stretch, there doesn't seem to be much indication on the part of Thurman that there is even a slight possibility that could happen.
"Knowing the situation that happened up at Tennessee, I think I can develop a strong hatred of that program," he said with a laugh.
Spoken just like a future Florida Gators, who will see some of his toughest battles against the Vols each September to open up play in the Southeastern Conference.
TE Cameron Clear gets a Florida offer...
One of the most intriguing sites at Friday Night Lights in Gainesville this weekend had to be that of Cameron Clear (6-6, 265) and the mohawk on top of his monster frame running around and catching passes while taking part in tight end drills for Gators assistant coach Brian White.
Clear stepped up and had another impressive performance catching the football on Sunday, as he participated at the Gridiron Kings 7-on-7 tournament at the ESPN Wide World of Sports in Lake Buena Vista. Of course, maybe it was impressive because for a big guy, Clear shows good hands and can run a little bit. Still, many feel his position on the next level will eventually be left tackle (not all that unlike fellow jumbo tight end prospect Austin Seferian-Jenkins, who also participated in the event).
I confirmed that Clear picked up an offer from the Gators this weekend. However, the Gators offered Clear as an offensive lineman, and Clear has made it known that he wants a shot at tight end. Despite the fact that Clear was very excited for the possibility of earning an offer from Florida during his stay in the Sunshine State, the question is whether or not he will be happy with an offer from the Gators to play a position he hasn't fully embraced yet. More coming from Clear on Monday...
Clear stepped up and had another impressive performance catching the football on Sunday, as he participated at the Gridiron Kings 7-on-7 tournament at the ESPN Wide World of Sports in Lake Buena Vista. Of course, maybe it was impressive because for a big guy, Clear shows good hands and can run a little bit. Still, many feel his position on the next level will eventually be left tackle (not all that unlike fellow jumbo tight end prospect Austin Seferian-Jenkins, who also participated in the event).
I confirmed that Clear picked up an offer from the Gators this weekend. However, the Gators offered Clear as an offensive lineman, and Clear has made it known that he wants a shot at tight end. Despite the fact that Clear was very excited for the possibility of earning an offer from Florida during his stay in the Sunshine State, the question is whether or not he will be happy with an offer from the Gators to play a position he hasn't fully embraced yet. More coming from Clear on Monday...
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Gridiron Kings Notebook...
LAKE BUENA VISTA -- It might not have been the most exciting football on display Sunday afternoon at the ESPN Wide World of Sports on the Disney campus in Central Florida. For the second year in a row, Team Southeast (led by a strong contingent of prospects from the state of Florida), cruised to an easy 36-0 victory over Team Southwest to claim the title. The champs were so dominant, they gave up only six points in the final three games as they ran over, through, and around everything in their path. Led by the strong defensive effort, it became clear early on in the day as to who would be hoisting the trophy in the end.
The Southeast was led by strong secondary play on defense, as safeties Ha'sean Clinton-Dix (6-2, 200, Orlando, Fla./Dr. Phillips -- Committed to ALABAMA) and Karlos Williams (6-1, 215, Davenport, Fla./Ridge -- Committed to FLORIDA STATE) along with cornerbacks Marcus Roberson (6-1, 175, Ft. Lauderdale, Fla./St. Thomas Aquinas) and Nick Waisome (5-10, 170, Groveland, Fla./South Lake) all had a huge hand in leading the team to the championship. Williams returned three interceptions for touchdowns, as he showed why he is one of the top prospects in the state of Florida. I thought Clinton-Dix was the best free safety prospect in the country going into today, and he did nothing to disappoint. The break these two showed on the ball in racking up interception after interception was simply incredible.
Roberson is a incredibly physical cornerback, and he showed yet again why he has made such a meteoric rise in the eyes of practically everyone since he burst onto the scene this spring. Waisome made several plays, and his technically-sound coverage abilities were on display once again after what he termed a "disappointing" performance (for him, at least) at Friday Night Lights a night before.
Williams captured Defensive MVP honors for his day, which included three interception returns for touchdowns. Clinton-Dix and Waisome also returned interceptions for touchdowns as well. Both Clinton-Dix and Roberson would be named to the All-Tournament team for their efforts.
Like Waisome, tight end Nick O'Leary (6-4, 230, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla./Dwyer) wasn't exactly on top of his game at Friday Night Lights in Gainesville, but he blew everyone away with what he did on the field today. Much like former teammate (and current Florida Gators freshman tight end) Gerald Christian last year, O'Leary simply dominated the competition today. He was a favorite target of Southeast QB Tony McNeal (6-1, 185, Chester, S.C./Chester -- Committed to Clemson) all day, and I didn't see him drop a single pass that was thrown anywhere near him. O'Leary showed once again why he is one of the top five prospects in the entire state of Florida for the Class of 2011.
Here are some other tidbits from today's festivities:
-- LB Curtis Grant (6-3, 230, Richmond, Va./Hermitage) refused to name a leader or top group of schools. "I am currently focusing on the season, not recruiting," was his response to the query. Grant, who is being recruited to play the MIKE position by Florida, said that he was very impressed by new Florida linebackers coach D.J. Durkin because "he's very energetic, which is good, because I have a lot of energy too." There is no timetable currently set for when Grant plans to make a decision.
-- I spoke to WR Ja'Juan Story (6-3, 195, Brooksville, Fla./Nature Coast), who made a commitment to the Gators in June. Story said that he decided on Florida simply because "it was the best school to get me to where I want to be as a football player." Story was a late-minute addition to Team Southwest, and although he didn't get a whole lot of opportunities to make plays on Sunday (I only saw him make two receptions on the day), he did enjoy the experience overall. "I can only get better going against the best players from around the country," he said.
-- I am starting to hear some mixed reports on the "commitment" of Rahim Cassell (6-1, 210, Lakewood, Fla./Lakewood). I'm not sure why there is such a misunderstanding among all parties involved in this recruitment, but clearly not everyone is on the same page. After watching Cassell today, it would be hard for me to believe that his pledge would be taking when there are plenty of great prospects (Curtis Grant, Stephone Anthony, Lamar Dawson, Tony Steward and Kent Turene among them) uncommitted and still on the market.
-- WR Damiere Byrd (5-9, 160, Sicklerville, N.J./Timber Creek) had a pretty solid day playing wide receiver. Currently, Florida is recruiting Byrd as a cornerback, and it doesn't appear that Byrd has the option to commit at this point. While things could certainly change, it looks like South Carolina could be the team to beat for Byrd, barring a change in circumstances.
The Southeast was led by strong secondary play on defense, as safeties Ha'sean Clinton-Dix (6-2, 200, Orlando, Fla./Dr. Phillips -- Committed to ALABAMA) and Karlos Williams (6-1, 215, Davenport, Fla./Ridge -- Committed to FLORIDA STATE) along with cornerbacks Marcus Roberson (6-1, 175, Ft. Lauderdale, Fla./St. Thomas Aquinas) and Nick Waisome (5-10, 170, Groveland, Fla./South Lake) all had a huge hand in leading the team to the championship. Williams returned three interceptions for touchdowns, as he showed why he is one of the top prospects in the state of Florida. I thought Clinton-Dix was the best free safety prospect in the country going into today, and he did nothing to disappoint. The break these two showed on the ball in racking up interception after interception was simply incredible.
Roberson is a incredibly physical cornerback, and he showed yet again why he has made such a meteoric rise in the eyes of practically everyone since he burst onto the scene this spring. Waisome made several plays, and his technically-sound coverage abilities were on display once again after what he termed a "disappointing" performance (for him, at least) at Friday Night Lights a night before.
Williams captured Defensive MVP honors for his day, which included three interception returns for touchdowns. Clinton-Dix and Waisome also returned interceptions for touchdowns as well. Both Clinton-Dix and Roberson would be named to the All-Tournament team for their efforts.
Like Waisome, tight end Nick O'Leary (6-4, 230, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla./Dwyer) wasn't exactly on top of his game at Friday Night Lights in Gainesville, but he blew everyone away with what he did on the field today. Much like former teammate (and current Florida Gators freshman tight end) Gerald Christian last year, O'Leary simply dominated the competition today. He was a favorite target of Southeast QB Tony McNeal (6-1, 185, Chester, S.C./Chester -- Committed to Clemson) all day, and I didn't see him drop a single pass that was thrown anywhere near him. O'Leary showed once again why he is one of the top five prospects in the entire state of Florida for the Class of 2011.
Here are some other tidbits from today's festivities:
-- LB Curtis Grant (6-3, 230, Richmond, Va./Hermitage) refused to name a leader or top group of schools. "I am currently focusing on the season, not recruiting," was his response to the query. Grant, who is being recruited to play the MIKE position by Florida, said that he was very impressed by new Florida linebackers coach D.J. Durkin because "he's very energetic, which is good, because I have a lot of energy too." There is no timetable currently set for when Grant plans to make a decision.
-- I spoke to WR Ja'Juan Story (6-3, 195, Brooksville, Fla./Nature Coast), who made a commitment to the Gators in June. Story said that he decided on Florida simply because "it was the best school to get me to where I want to be as a football player." Story was a late-minute addition to Team Southwest, and although he didn't get a whole lot of opportunities to make plays on Sunday (I only saw him make two receptions on the day), he did enjoy the experience overall. "I can only get better going against the best players from around the country," he said.
-- I am starting to hear some mixed reports on the "commitment" of Rahim Cassell (6-1, 210, Lakewood, Fla./Lakewood). I'm not sure why there is such a misunderstanding among all parties involved in this recruitment, but clearly not everyone is on the same page. After watching Cassell today, it would be hard for me to believe that his pledge would be taking when there are plenty of great prospects (Curtis Grant, Stephone Anthony, Lamar Dawson, Tony Steward and Kent Turene among them) uncommitted and still on the market.
-- WR Damiere Byrd (5-9, 160, Sicklerville, N.J./Timber Creek) had a pretty solid day playing wide receiver. Currently, Florida is recruiting Byrd as a cornerback, and it doesn't appear that Byrd has the option to commit at this point. While things could certainly change, it looks like South Carolina could be the team to beat for Byrd, barring a change in circumstances.
Auburn in the drivers seat for Marcus Roberson...
I'm not sure if any high school football prospect in the state of Florida has had as much of a rise in recruiting circles over the past six months as Marcus Roberson (6-1, 175, Ft. Lauderdale, Fla./St. Thomas Aquinas). At the Gridiron Kings 7-on-7 tournament (put on by the fine folks at ESPN Rise) which was held this weekend, Roberson was integral part of the dominant Team Southeast defense, a group which gave up only six points in their final three contests -- not an easy feat in the world of 7-on-7 play. Roberson earned all-tournament honors as the Southeast team walked away with an easy 36-0 victory in championship game over Team Southwest at the ESPN Wide World of Sports in Lake Buena Vista.
In regards to his recruitment, Roberson has been all over the map. Early on he favored Texas A&M. Following a June visit to Gainesville, the Gators moved squarely into the driver's seat for his commitment, and figured to reel him in before the season starts in August. Now, it appears Roberson is leaning in a different direction once again.
"It's Auburn," Roberson said when prompted for a leader on Sunday evening. "Everything about it is great, the team, the people, and the coaches."
Why did the Tigers make such a move for one of the top cornerback prospects in the entire country? At Auburn, Roberson knows he will have a shot at starting out at the position he prefers, while Florida has mentioned two possibilities for where he could play over the course of his recruitment.
"Auburn wants me at cornerback," Roberson explained. "Florida told me safety at first. Then they said I could play cornerback. I'm not real sure about all of that."
While the Gators are still working hard to land Roberson's services, it appears they are fighting an uphill battle at this point. Although Roberson attended Friday Night Lights in Gainesville last weekend, it was not enough to move Auburn off the top slot. Furthermore, Roberson is planning just one more trip before he makes a decision -- and it's not to Gainesville.
"I'm not sure if there will be enough time (for a visit to Florida)," he said. "We might be flying back to Alabama to take another visit (to Auburn)."
And so, while Roberson remains uncommitted for the time being, it appears the Tigers have moved very close to securing the services of one of the top defensive back prospects in the entire Southeast.
In regards to his recruitment, Roberson has been all over the map. Early on he favored Texas A&M. Following a June visit to Gainesville, the Gators moved squarely into the driver's seat for his commitment, and figured to reel him in before the season starts in August. Now, it appears Roberson is leaning in a different direction once again.
"It's Auburn," Roberson said when prompted for a leader on Sunday evening. "Everything about it is great, the team, the people, and the coaches."
Why did the Tigers make such a move for one of the top cornerback prospects in the entire country? At Auburn, Roberson knows he will have a shot at starting out at the position he prefers, while Florida has mentioned two possibilities for where he could play over the course of his recruitment.
"Auburn wants me at cornerback," Roberson explained. "Florida told me safety at first. Then they said I could play cornerback. I'm not real sure about all of that."
While the Gators are still working hard to land Roberson's services, it appears they are fighting an uphill battle at this point. Although Roberson attended Friday Night Lights in Gainesville last weekend, it was not enough to move Auburn off the top slot. Furthermore, Roberson is planning just one more trip before he makes a decision -- and it's not to Gainesville.
"I'm not sure if there will be enough time (for a visit to Florida)," he said. "We might be flying back to Alabama to take another visit (to Auburn)."
And so, while Roberson remains uncommitted for the time being, it appears the Tigers have moved very close to securing the services of one of the top defensive back prospects in the entire Southeast.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Jeoffrey Pagan "reconfirms" Florida commitment...
I was present as Jeoffrey Pagan (6-3, 270, Asheville, N.C./Asheville) told a small media contingent that he had reaffirmed his commitment to the Florida Gators following Friday Night Lights in Gainesville last night. Pagan, who made the return visit to Florida with his Mother in tow, says he will not take any more visits and is solid in his pledge to the Gators.
So, what does this development mean for Florida's direction in regards to the defensive line for the Class of 2011?
Obviously, Pagan is a big part of those efforts. A wide receiver as a sophomore, Pagan was shifted to the defensive line as a junior, and rewarded the Asheville High coaching staff with over 50 tackles (11 for loss) and five sacks as a result of the move. Those numbers may not necessarily jump out of the screen at you, but Pagan's potential as a defensive lineman is largely untapped. And with his big frame (Pagan is easily in the 270-pound range now), his versatility along the defensive line will give the Gators another formidable weapon up front.
Clearly, the efforts of Florida defensive line coach Dan McCarney are not finished on the trail, however.
In attendance at Friday Night Lights last night was Curt Maggitt (6-3, 210, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla./Dwyer), who worked out for the coaches, and received plenty of one-on-one attention from McCarney as well as Gator great Kevin Carter, who assisted with the defensive line prospects as well. Maggitt is a phenomenal pass-rusher (30 sacks between his sophomore and junior season), and he has been virtually the only target for Florida at the "FOX" (weakside) defensive end for the 2011 recruiting cycle.
It's always tough to recruit the defensive tackle position, but luckily for Florida, perhaps the best one in the country resides just a short 40-minute drive up I-75 from Gainesville. The Gators have been recruiting Timmy Jernigan (6-3, 280, Lake City, Fla./Columbia) since his freshman year of high school. He was good then, and he's just gotten bigger and better since that time. Although Jernigan was not present at Friday Night Lights (he participated in the National Select 7-on-7 Tournament with his teammates in Hoover, Ala. this weekend -- he played TE and LB), his Father did make an appearance, as he brought Tim's cousin -- 2012 prospect Dequan Ivery (6-0, 300) --- down to Gainesville to participate in the event.
As I hear it, Florida is still a strong number one for Jernigan right now, with LSU and FSU trailing at this point. Ever since taking in the Ed White-Columbia game last fall (a game in which Jernigan recorded 19 tackles, with 6.5 being behind the line of scrimmage), I have had Jernigan as the top prospect in the state of Florida. His ability to hold up at the point of attack and provide a presence against the run, coupled with his pass-rushing ability (which reminds me a bit of Warren Sapp in his early days at the University of Miami), make him the complete package at the defensive tackle position.
Landing the trio of Jernigan, Maggitt and Pagan would be considerably impressive coming off the class they signed in February. At that point, Florida could decide to call it a day on the defensive line. However, there are some other possibilities still remaining on the board. They include Todd Barr (6-1, 265, Lakewood, Calif./Lakewood), Devonte Brown, (6-4, 285, Fayetteville, N.C./Jack Britt), Anthony Chickillo (6-3, 225, Tampa, Fla./Alonso) and Ray Drew (6-5, 255, Thomasville, Ga./Thomas County Central), among others.
With Pagan solidifying his commitment to the Gators, he gives Florida the first piece in what will hopefully be the successful blockbuster that was the defensive line class that Urban Meyer was able to bring in at the beginning of the year. If the early returns are any indication, the Gators look to be headed in that direction for the Class of 2011 as well.
So, what does this development mean for Florida's direction in regards to the defensive line for the Class of 2011?
Obviously, Pagan is a big part of those efforts. A wide receiver as a sophomore, Pagan was shifted to the defensive line as a junior, and rewarded the Asheville High coaching staff with over 50 tackles (11 for loss) and five sacks as a result of the move. Those numbers may not necessarily jump out of the screen at you, but Pagan's potential as a defensive lineman is largely untapped. And with his big frame (Pagan is easily in the 270-pound range now), his versatility along the defensive line will give the Gators another formidable weapon up front.
Clearly, the efforts of Florida defensive line coach Dan McCarney are not finished on the trail, however.
In attendance at Friday Night Lights last night was Curt Maggitt (6-3, 210, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla./Dwyer), who worked out for the coaches, and received plenty of one-on-one attention from McCarney as well as Gator great Kevin Carter, who assisted with the defensive line prospects as well. Maggitt is a phenomenal pass-rusher (30 sacks between his sophomore and junior season), and he has been virtually the only target for Florida at the "FOX" (weakside) defensive end for the 2011 recruiting cycle.
It's always tough to recruit the defensive tackle position, but luckily for Florida, perhaps the best one in the country resides just a short 40-minute drive up I-75 from Gainesville. The Gators have been recruiting Timmy Jernigan (6-3, 280, Lake City, Fla./Columbia) since his freshman year of high school. He was good then, and he's just gotten bigger and better since that time. Although Jernigan was not present at Friday Night Lights (he participated in the National Select 7-on-7 Tournament with his teammates in Hoover, Ala. this weekend -- he played TE and LB), his Father did make an appearance, as he brought Tim's cousin -- 2012 prospect Dequan Ivery (6-0, 300) --- down to Gainesville to participate in the event.
As I hear it, Florida is still a strong number one for Jernigan right now, with LSU and FSU trailing at this point. Ever since taking in the Ed White-Columbia game last fall (a game in which Jernigan recorded 19 tackles, with 6.5 being behind the line of scrimmage), I have had Jernigan as the top prospect in the state of Florida. His ability to hold up at the point of attack and provide a presence against the run, coupled with his pass-rushing ability (which reminds me a bit of Warren Sapp in his early days at the University of Miami), make him the complete package at the defensive tackle position.
Landing the trio of Jernigan, Maggitt and Pagan would be considerably impressive coming off the class they signed in February. At that point, Florida could decide to call it a day on the defensive line. However, there are some other possibilities still remaining on the board. They include Todd Barr (6-1, 265, Lakewood, Calif./Lakewood), Devonte Brown, (6-4, 285, Fayetteville, N.C./Jack Britt), Anthony Chickillo (6-3, 225, Tampa, Fla./Alonso) and Ray Drew (6-5, 255, Thomasville, Ga./Thomas County Central), among others.
With Pagan solidifying his commitment to the Gators, he gives Florida the first piece in what will hopefully be the successful blockbuster that was the defensive line class that Urban Meyer was able to bring in at the beginning of the year. If the early returns are any indication, the Gators look to be headed in that direction for the Class of 2011 as well.
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