Four-Star DL Kelby Collins commits to Florida

Four-star defensive lineman Kelby Collins of Gardendale (AL) High announced his commitment to Florida Saturday afternoon.

The 6-foot-5, 258 pounder chose the Gators over Alabama and Georgia.

Collins on why he chose Florida

“Just the energy everyone brings,” Collins said. “The staff believes in everyone and everyone believes in the system they have set in place so far. I’m also close with all the commits and we all have the same goal.”

Strong relationship with coaching staff

“I’m the closest to Chase Clark and coach Chaos,” Collins said. “We talk all the time about football about how much I’m needed and wanted for them to take their team to the next level. Also, they are super close to my family.”

How Florida plans to use Kelby Collins

“They plan on using me everywhere all around the line and make me a versatile player.”

The Alabama defensive lineman joins coach Napier and the Gators’ No. 12 class in the 2023 team rankings.

Kelby Collins Scouting Summary

“Highly productive, big-framed defensive lineman who could play a number of spots along the front,” On3’s Director of Scouting Charles Power wrote. Measured at 6-foot-5, 278 pounds with a 6-foot-6 wing-span prior to his junior season. Has been a dominant high school defensive lineman for a few seasons. Totaled 20 tackles for loss and 12 sacks as a junior. Frequently in opposing backfields, using quick and strong hands to disengage from blocks. A fluid mover who closes quickly behind the line of scrimmage. A strong run defender and chases down plays from the back side. Could line up as a big defensive end or move inside at the next level pending on his size. Lacks high end length for the position relative to other highly-ranked peers.”

Collins currently ranks as the No. 60 player in the On3 Consensus, a complete and equally weighted industry-generated average that accounts for all four major recruiting services. He also tabs in as the No. 7 defensive lineman, and the No.8 player in the state of Alabama.