Florida edge rusher [autotag]Antwaun Powell-Ryland Jr[/autotag]. is entering the transfer portal, according to a social media post he sent out Friday afternoon.
Powell is the second Gator to leave the team following the Orange and Blue Game. Offensive lineman [autotag]David Conner[/autotag] officially entered the portal on Thursday after leaving the team during spring practices.
He didn’t give a reason for his decision, but playing time was likely a factor for the rising fourth-year junior. [autotag]Princely Umanmielen[/autotag] switched to the edge after [autotag]Brenton Cox Jr[/autotag]. was dismissed from the team last season, and he’s the expected starter heading into the summer.
Powell would have been competing for secondary snaps with redshirt sophomore [autotag]Justus Boone[/autotag] had he stayed, and a trio of true freshmen led by [autotag]Kelby Collins[/autotag] are hungry to take away snaps too.
I will be entering the transfer portal.🙏🏾
— Antwaun Powell (@TwaunPowell) April 21, 2023
Over three seasons in Gainesville, Powell recorded 34 total tackles (14 solo), including 7.5 tackles for a loss and 4.5 sacks, through 27 games played. He started five times for Florida in 2023 and played snaps in all 13 games.
Although the Gators are losing a consistent piece of its defense, the line is loaded with young Napier-recruited talent ready to take off, so this might have been the best move for both parties.
Still, the announcement is surprising from a player who seemed to have bought into Napier’s system.
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