Florida Gators receive crystal ball to flip five-star recruit from bitter rival
Does anybody have it better than the Florida Gators right now? The Gators have been on a heater on the recruiting trail that has Billy Napier's job feeling safer every day. They are now up to 11th in the 247 Sports' recruiting rankings and the work isn't done yet. The Gators have been trying to […]
Does anybody have it better than the Florida Gators right now?
The Gators have been on a heater on the recruiting trail that has Billy Napier's job feeling safer every day. They are now up to 11th in the 247 Sports' recruiting rankings and the work isn't done yet.
The Gators have been trying to flip multiple five-star recruits, including Texas wide receiver commit Jaime Ffrench and Oregon wide receiver commit Dallas Wilson.
The night before early National Signing Day, the Gators were given a 247 Crystal Ball to flip a different five-star, with this one from a bitter rival.
Noles 247 insider Brendan Sonnone has put a crystal ball out for the Gators to flip five-star interior offensive lineman Solomon Thomas from bitter rival Florida State. With the Gators losing talent on the interior of the offensive line, adding the nation's second-ranked interior offensive lineman per 247 Sports.
Here is what 247 Sports' director of scouting Andrew Irvins has to say about Thomas.
Advanced offensive line prospect with some position flexibility that's built to play in an offensive system that’s heavy on gap and inside-zone concepts. Looks ready to play with a barrel-chested build that measures in at just under 6-foot-4, 315 pounds. Spent much of junior season working at left tackle, before repping primarily at left guard early on during senior season. Excels at pinning and pulling as he’s frequently in tune and in control of his body. Solid as a combo blocker and has the brute strength to displace assignments as a down blocker. Likes to finish with authority and will put defenders in the ground when he gets a chance. Has had his moments in pass pro over the years, but likely lacks foot quickness to handle the hot corner at the game’s highest levels. Still, has proven to be rather effective in tight quarters on passing downs with a formidable punch and sound hand placement. Projects as a potential multi-year starter for a Power Four program that can play three or four different spots up front, including center. Might need a year or two to adjust to the speed and physicality of the collegiate game, but appears to be ahead of the curve and will have a chance to eventually emerge as an NFL Draft pick if he can keep progressing and avoid setbacks.
Being able to add a five-star on early signing day would be massive for the Gators as they continue to make waves on the recruiting trail, as recruits are attracted to superstar quarterback DJ Lagway.
