Searcy's pledge pushes Florida into the top 15 of the 2023 team rankings
With T.J. Searcy committed to the orange and blue, Florida now has the No. 14 recruiting class with On3 Sports. The Gators moved up six spots after previously checking in at No. 20.
UF, which holds commitments from nine prospects, also has the No. 6 recruiting class in the SEC. Seven of those rising seniors reside in the Sunshine State, while Searcy and four-star athlete Aaron Gates represent the state of Georgia.
The Gators’ class features five defensive players and four on the offensive side of the ball. The aforementioned Gates is tabbed as an athlete but will play in the secondary at Florida.
Also, Searcy is now the highest-ranked prospect in the class, followed by four-star EDGE Isaiah Nixon and four-star defensive back Sharif Denson. Each prospect committed within the past two weeks and ranks inside the top 200 of the On3 Consensus.
Additional top Gators targets are expected to come off the board in the near future as well.
Included in that group are EDGE Malik Bryant, defensive lineman Derrick LeBlanc, offensive tackle Payton Kirkland, running back Treyaun Webb and wide receivers Eugene Wilson III and Aidan Mizell.
Out of that group, I like Florida’s chances the most with Wilson and Mizell. I’m hearing Wilson could be pulling himself off the market in the coming days, while Mizell has been eyeing a decision for sometime before the season. It’s likely a Penn State-Florida battle for Webb, who could be announcing next week.
Also, keep an eye on four-star wide receiver Daquayvious Sorey. He was expected to join the class today as well before opting to take a step back; however, I still like where Florida stands with the in-state target.
Shortly after Denson committed, I said I would be surprised if the Gators were not sitting in the top 15 by the start of the season. Well, here we are exactly one week later.
The Gators are surging and now inching closer to making an appearance in the top 10 as well.
What are the Gators getting in top-50 prospect 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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