Florida Gators tight end Jonathan Odom entering the transfer portal

On3 imageby:Zach Abolverdi•11/26/23•

ZachAbolverdi

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Florida Gators tight end Jonathan Odom announced Sunday that he will be entering the NCAA transfer portal. He’s the third player from the 2023 roster to leave the program.

As a fourth-year junior, Odom took part in the Senior Day ceremony on Saturday in the regular season finale against Florida State. The UF legacy signed in the 2020 class and spent his first two seasons as a reserve tight end.

Odom earned playing time during the 2022 season and appeared in nine games, making seven receptions for 69 yards and two touchdowns. He suffered a torn ACL in the Las Vegas Bowl and spent the offseason rehabbing.

Odom returned from injury and opened this season as a starting tight end, making nine catches for 75 yards in the first four games. However, he did not play the rest of the year and Florida coach Billy Napier said Odom was in concussion protocol.

Odom joins offensive lineman Jordan Herman and senior safety Jadarrius Perkins as outgoing transfers for the Gators.

Here’s what Jonathan Odom said about his decision on social media.

Jonathan Odom statement

“Dear Gator Nation, after much prayer and consideration with my family and those closest to me over the past few weeks, I will be entering the transfer portal as a grad transfer with 2 years of eligibility remaining. I will be completing my degree, graduating from the University of Florida and walking this December. As many who have followed my journey know, I have had many ups and downs but one thing I know is I gave this University and team everything I had every time I stepped on the field, and will forever be grateful for what it has done for me.

“I want to thank Coach Napier for what he is doing for the Team and University. To my teammates, my brothers, some of the best memories in my life I have spent with y’all, from going to battle on Saturdays to spending time together away from football, wouldn’t trade those memories for the world. You guys will continue to be my family no matter where our journeys take us. I want to thank all my coaches for the time they have invested in me. Specifically, Coach Mullen and Coach Scott for giving me the opportunity to play at UF. Also, Coach Brewster, Coach Peagler, Coach Frank, Coach Sale, and Coach Callaway for all developing me into the player and man i am today. I want also thank the training staff that have been there for me many times when I’ve needed it most and have gotten me back on the field through tough injuries, especially Paul Silvestri and Dr. Farmer.

“To the fans, there is truly no better feeling than running out into a packed swamp on Saturday’s. Coming from a legacy kid, life long fan, player, and soon to be alumni, you guys are what make The Swamp so special!

“Lastly, to my family and friends, I would not be where lam today without you guys. Through the achievements and injuries, the wins and the losses, my happiest hours to my darkest moments, y’all have been there for me every step of the way and for that I can’t express my gratitude enough. I cannot wait to see where God takes me next and his plans for me! All Glory to God. AMDG.”

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