The Florida Gators parted ways with two key defensive assistants this week, but the recruiting staff can’t afford to let that slow them.
The early signing period is less than three weeks away, but Billy Napier will not rush the hiring process as he looks for a defensive backs coach and a defensive line coach. However, the staff has recruiting assignments that don’t disappear along with Corey Raymond and Sean Spencer.
While Napier looks for suitable replacements, a pair of lower-level assistants are getting a temporary promotion, according to Gators Online. Chad Lucas, the quality control assistant for the receivers, is making Raymond’s rounds, and graduate assistant Kali James Jr. will step in for Spencer. James has been mentioned by several of the Napier-era recruiting targets as a steady point of contact. He should thrive in the role.
It’s worth noting Billy Napier decided to promote internally when replacing the spot left vacant by tight end coach William Peagler last offseason. He started at Florida with an off-the-field role, so this could be an audition.
Of course, Raymond and Spencer were two of the better-known assistants on Florida’s staff, so an external hire with some star power may be needed here.
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