GAINESVILLE — Florida’s three-game profitable streak, recruiting spike and potential for fulfillment with quarterback DJ Lagway has intensified the competitors for a roster spot, a lot much less a key position.
Gamers looking for a brand new begin or higher scenario introduced their intentions to enter the switch portal hours after the Gators’ 31-11 win Saturday evening at Florida State, with former beginning defensive finish Justus Boone and promising receiver Andy Jean main the way in which.
Justus Boone
Vitals: 6-3 ¾, 266 kilos
Resumé: Boone was a 4-star prospect out of Sumter, S.C., rated the nation’s No. 28 defensive lineman and No. 201 general recruit within the 2021 class, in response to 247Sports composite rankings.
Position: In line for a beginning position in 2023, Florida redshirt sophomore defensive finish Justus Boone tore his ACL throughout a celebration on the Gators’ first scrimmage in fall camp. When he returned a yr later, Boone wore the No. 1 jersey and appeared poised to make an affect, but hardly ever did. He completed 2024 with 10 tackles, together with 2 for loss, in 12 appearances. He ends his UF profession with 37 stops, 4.5 for loss (2.5 sacks).
Outlook: The Gators have depth at finish. Junior Jack Pyburn is second on the staff with 60 stops after he tore his ACL Nov. 4, 2023 in opposition to Arkansas. Sophomore Kamran James of Orlando, who has 25 tackles, 3 for loss, has steadily improved improved whereas true freshman LJ McCray, the nation’s top-rated defensive lineman in 2024, had 12 stops in 12 appearances.
Andy Jean
Vitals: 6-1, 184 kilos
Resumé: Jean was a 4-star prospect out of Miami rated the nation’s No. 53 large receiver and No. 301 general prospect. He supplied extra dimension than 2023 classmates Tre Wilson and Aidan Mizell, whereas Jean additionally was thought of a extra refined route-runner.
Position: Leg accidents plagued Jean early and infrequently. He appeared solely in opposition to Mississippi State in 2024 after catching 6 passes for 97 yards throughout 4 appearances in 2023.
Outlook: The Gators can be within the switch marketplace for cross catchers, given the pending departures of Elijhah Badger and Chimere Dike — the staff’s two main receivers after transferring from Arizona State and Wisconsin, respectively. Wilson missed eight video games as a sophomore as a consequence of accidents, culminating with season-ending hip surgical procedure. Mizell (12 catches, 151 yards, 2 touchdowns) confirmed flashes, as did true freshman Tank Hawkins. Veteran Kahleil Jackson goals to return from season-ending knee surgical procedure. The Gators’ high commit is Orlando Jones standout Vernell Brown III, the nation’s No. 6 receiver prospect.
Edgar Thompson might be reached at egthompson@orlandosentinel.com