Breaking: Florida safety Rashad Torrence declares for NFL Draft
GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Florida Gators starting safety Rashad Torrence is entering his name into the 2023 NFL Draft. Torrence announced his decision on Twitter Thursday night.
“First and foremost I want to thank my family for their love, support, and sacrifice. I also want to thank the University of Florida for the amazing experience these past three years. The knowledge gained and lessons learned will last a lifetime,” Torrence wrote.
“To be taught under the tutelage of two great head coaches, Mullen and Napier, 1 am forever grateful. My coaches, Grantham, English, Crime Dawg, and Toney have prepared me for this moment. Last but definitely not least, thank you to the LOYAL gator fans that have supported me from day 1.”
“Since I was 6 years old my dream has been to play collegiate football and I can’t think of a better place to play than The Swamp With all things considered, my ultimate goal is to play in the NFL on Sundays. After much prayer and guidance, l’ve decide to forego my senior season, trust Gods plan for my life, and enter the 2023 NFL DRAFT.”
Torrence led all Gators this season with 84 tackles and 50 solo tackles. He started 12 of 13 games, missing one with an injury. Torrence sustained an injury in the first half of a loss against Vanderbilt and missed the following game, a loss to Florida State.
Torrence has been a stalwart on the UF defense since he arrived in Gainesville. He saw action in nine games as a true freshman in 2020, including three starts. Torrence started all 13 games in 2021 and 28 total for his career.
Gators who have declared for the NFL Draft
Torrence is the seventh Florida Gator to declare early for the NFL Draft. EDGE rusher Brenton Cox Jr, who was dismissed from the team, was the first to announce. Quarterback Anthony Richardson and defensive tackle Gervon Dexter were next. All-American offensive lineman O’Cyrus Torrence and receiver Justin Shorter also have declared. Richard Gouraige also announced he would skip his final year of eligibility in favor of testing the draft.
The Gators also have several seniors that will test the NFL waters. Trey Dean, Amari Burney and Ventrell Miller have announced their intentions to enter the draft.
