Wide receiver Jacob Copeland has played his last game as a Florida Gator.
The former four-star recruit announced his decision to transfer to the University of Maryland just a day after suiting up for the Gators against UCF in the Gasparilla Bowl. Copeland’s final performance was a quiet one, but he was the team’s leading receiver this year and will be a valuable addition to the Terrapins’ offense.
Copeland entered the transfer portal on Dec. 9 and a crystal ball prediction for Maryland from InsideMDSports’ Jeff Erman came in just a week later. It was surprising to see Copeland on the field on Thursday, but it appears his mind may have already been made up.
đ˘ pic.twitter.com/BiZbF32wbg
— Jacob Copeland (@JCope1era) December 24, 2021
Maryland made the announcement official just a few moments after Copeland posted. He leaves the University of Florida with 86 career receptions, 1,366 receiving yards and nine receiving touchdowns over 40 games.
Without Copeland, Florida needs to figure out who will be the new No. 1 on the offense. Justin Shorter appears to be healthier than expected after suffering a brutal hit against UCF. He was the team’s next most productive receiver this year and could be in line for a promotion if he returns. Xzavier Henderson and Trent Whittemore have also seen enough action to make an impact in 2022.
Copeland should thrive catching passes from Taulia Tagovailoa in the Big Ten. He threw for nearly 3600 yards this season and connected with his receivers for 24 touchdowns. The Terps could have one of the best receiving corps in the country with Copeland joining Dontay Demus Jr., Jeshaun Jones and Rakim Jarrett.
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