It was far from an ideal national signing day for Florida coach Dan Mullen on Thursday, and recruiting continues to be an issue heading into his fourth year. On-field success hasn’t been a problem during Mullen’s tenure, but the lack of elite recruiting is holding this team back from its long-term goals.
When the dust had settled, the UF class ranked just 14th in Sports Illustrated’s final recruiting rankings. Here’s what they said about the Gators.
14. Florida (13)
22 Verbal Commitments, 4 in the SI99
The Gators were in the mix for Arnold but weren’t a late contender for the in-state star and final Floridian in the SI99 to make a commitment. It parted ways with longtime junior college commitment Deyavie Hammond, too.
Safety Terrion Arnold, who UF hoped it could land, picked Alabama, while JUCO commit Deyavie Hammond decommitted from the team.
Florida’s class was saved by the signing of five-star cornerback Jason Marshall from Miami, one of the best players UF has signed in years. If they hadn’t secured his signature, this recruiting class would be even more disappointing.
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