Gators commit T.J. Searcy officially shuts down recruitment
In recent weeks, Florida commit T.J. Searcy has mentioned Tennessee as a possibly visit destination before wrapping up his recruitment just over a month from now.
Although he was not able to head to Knoxville for the Vols’ matchup against UF, Searcy still mentioned Tennessee as a possible visit destination down the stretch. Josh Heupel’s program received an official visit over the summer along with Florida, Clemson and South Carolina.
However, another trip to Knoxville will not be taking place after all; in fact, on Wednesday evening, the On300 defensive lineman officially shut down his recruitment and says he’s all in with Billy Napier’s program.
“Glory be to God, I am grateful for the opportunity to be recruited by so many elite universities. After giving further consideration to the other schools who continued to recruit me after my UF commitment, I want everyone to know my recruitment is completely shut down,” Searcy posted on Twitter.
According to the On3 Consensus, a complete and equally weighted industry-generated average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies, Searcy ranks as the No. 20 defensive lineman and No. 156 prospect overall.
With On3, however, the 6-foot-5.5, 243-pound senior ranks significantly higher, checking in as the 13th-ranked defensive lineman and 97th-ranked player overall.
After recently attending UF’s game against LSU, Searcy said he sees the opportunity to make an early splash with the orange and blue. That belief was backed up after being present for additional games inside the Swamp as well.
“One thing we need a lot of are edge rushers and pass rushers. We need to get pressure on the quarterback here,” Searcy said last month.
“I think our recruiting class will definitely bring that pressure. We really got all the pieces, but with me, I think I can bring a balanced edge rusher that can do everything you need me to do.”
Scouting Report on T.J. Searcy
Physically-gifted defensive lineman with the athletic profile and frame that points to a high upside. One of the more physically impressive defensive line prospects in the 2023 cycle.
Checked in at over 6-foot-5 and 242 pounds with a 6-foot-11 wing-span prior to his senior season. Is a highly flexible and functional athlete, particularly in the camp setting. Has quick feet and looks to be coordinated. Shows off his athleticism on the basketball court where he shows above-the-rim bounce. Has also posted strong marks in the shot put (over 47 feet as a sophomore).
Plays as an outside linebacker for his high school, often playing in space. Does see limited pass rush opportunities. Has advanced on-field movement skills at his size. Also plays as an h-back and blocking tight end on offense.
A developmental projection as a line of scrimmage player, given his lack of experience in the trenches. Will need to increase his production as a senior. More of a top physical talent than a dominant player at this juncture. Could end up as an EDGE prospect pending how his body develops. — On3 Director of Scouting and Rankings Charles Power
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