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GAINESVILLE — Florida’s four-game winning streak, recruiting spike and potential for success with quarterback DJ Lagway has intensified the competition for a roster spot, much less a key role.
One critical role is depth behind Lagway.
Enter Charlotte quarterback Deshawn Purdie, who accounted for 11 touchdowns as a true freshman for the 49ers. Purdie committed after spending multiple days in Gainesville for an official visit after, according to On3.com.
On3.com also reported UMass redshirt sophomore edge rusher Kofi Asare committed to UF.
This capped a busy stretch including UCLA transfer wide receiver J.Michael Sturdivant’s commitment on the eve of the Gators’ 33-8 win against Tulane in the Gasparilla Bowl Dec. 20 in Tampa.
Coach Billy Napier, a former receiver coach, aims to continue his impressive track record in the portal.
The Gators hope the 6-foot-3, 205-pound Sturdivant aims to follow the lead of Ricky Pearsall, Elijhah Badger and Chimere Dike, a trio of impact pass-catchers from the transfer portal. Sturdivant recorded 123 catches for 1,667 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2022-24, including the past two seasons at UCLA.
But those with a secure future at UF also could seek a better one.
Case in point: edge rusher Jack Pyburn, who announced Dec. 16 on his Instagram account he is heading to LSU.
The Gators’ high-motor and tone-setting defender is leaving the Gators after a breakout season, featuring 60 tackles, including 5 for loss (2 sacks) and an interception. His strip sack against Florida State set up Florida’s first touchdown during a 31-11 win Nov. 30 in Tallahassee.
The Jacksonville native returned better than ever from a torn ACL on Nov. 5, 2023 against Arkansas.
“I just view everything in my journey as a blessing,” he said earlier in the season. “If you have the right mentality about things in life,…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/uf-football-transfer-tracker-gators-033000004.html
Author : Orlando Sentinel
Publish date : 2024-12-23 03:30:00
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