Gators commit most deserving of a bump in the 2023 rankings
When it comes to rankings in the recruiting industry, you are simply not going to please everyone, especially when it comes to a prospect who is committed to that fan’s favorite school.
Sure, they are plenty of future additions who are ranked perfectly in the eyes of the fan base; however, the recruiting industry is never going to be perfect. There is always going to be praise and criticism once that player wraps up their college career, typically creating quality discussion among others.
Although the rankings are nowhere near finalized, Gators Online has opted to join the discussion as well.
In the breakdown below, we highlight the Florida commit who is most deserving of a boost in the 2023 rankings.
Gators offensive line commit Knijeah Harris
In my opinion, this one is simply a no-brainer.
The 6-foot-3, 327-pound Harris, an interior offensive lineman from IMG Academy, is a three-star prospect in the On3 Consensus; however, I view the Sunshine State native as a potential multi-year starter in Gainesville. His current highlight reel, at least in my opinion, shows a four-star prospect as well.
As for his projected fit, Harris says the Gators are courting him to play a mixture of guard and center. He is playing center as a senior, so that will be great practice ahead of his time at UF. A lot of kids do not have experience snapping or shy away from taking on that challenge, but that is not the case with Harris.
Harris provides that pop at the point of attack, and more often than not, does a good job of getting his opponent to the turf. He also shows good awareness when scanning the field for defenders. He can be more consistent with sinking his hips and making contact with better pad level, but that is not a big concern.
While in pass protection, Harris shows decent footwork and is aware of his surroundings; however, he is much more advanced as a run blocker and that is evident when watching his film.
With all that said, what stands out the most is Harris’ aggressiveness. In today’s day and age of college football, everyone wants that lean and prototypical type of offensive lineman. With Harris, however, this is a stout road grader along the interior who brings it every play.
The Gators are intriuged by Harris’ versatility, but I believe he will settle in at center. That is where I believe he has the most potential, which warrants a four-star rating as well.
We will be keeping close tabs on Harris’ play throughout the fall. This is a prospect who has plenty of experience pulling and getting downhill to punish defenders.
Stay tuned to Gators Online.
