Florida’s top-ranked defensive commit in the class of 2023, defensive lineman [autotag]Kelby Collins[/autotag], will be visiting the University of Alabama this weekend to see the Crimson Tide take on the Auburn Tigers in the Iron Bowl, according to Gators Online.
Collins, an Alabama native who attends Gardendale High, has long been linked to the Crimson Tide, and this trip has been talked about for some time. The good news for Florida fans is that it isn’t an official visit, but Collins could return for one before the early signing period if he enjoys himself over the weekend.
Gators fans shouldn’t worry too much about a flip, although it’s never smart to count out Nick Saban and the Tide. Collins has vocally established himself as a leader of this recruiting class and seems ready to bring in new era of Florida football under Billy Napier.
Florida last hosted Collins in October for the LSU game, but he’s been on campus a few times this year. After the season opener against Utah, he praised the university and the atmosphere at the Swamp. Still, Napier and Co. should be recruiting him as if he weren’t under verbal commitment with Alabama looking for a flip.
The On3 consensus ranks Collins at No. 65 overall in the class of 2023 and No. 7 among defensive linemen in the class. The 247Sports composite is a bit more bearish on him, but he still comes in at No. 72 nationally and No. 8 among those in his position group.
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