Florida Gators 2017 Defensive Class Review

The 2017 recruiting cycle is nearing the home stretch for Florida, and the Gators have a solid foundation to build upon. Currently sitting at #12 overall - #9 in average star rankings - the Florida staff has positioned themselves for a top 10 finish.

As of right now, Florida only has two scholarships open due to a small senior class, but expect another five-to-seven scholarships to open up between early NFL entrants and transfers. Add in the inevitable de-commit or two, and the Gators should see roughly six to 10 new faces to close out this class.

Let’s take a look at a position by position breakdown including needs that have to be filled in order to upgrade this class from a good to a great one.

DEFENSIVE END

Need: 2

Commits: Zachary Carter (#4 SDE)

Top Targets: Jarez Parks (#1 WDE), LaBryan Ray (#2 SDE), Markaviest Bryant (#21 WDE), Tyjuan Garbutt

Breakdown: Although current commit Zachary Carter could wind up as a 3-technique defensive tackle, he has potential as a run stopping defensive end as well, crucial to any scheme. Carter has a frame that could bulk up quickly to the 260-270 pound range, putting him at the “tweener” position Gators fans have seen Jon Bullard and CeCe Jefferson play. The need for another strong-side end isn’t crucial, but a pass-rusher would be a welcome addition to this class. Jarez Parks is arguably the most important recruit left on the board for the Gators, and he has big time potential as an edge rush specialist. Markaviest Bryant and Tyjuan Garbutt are more potential pass rush specialists who continue to list Florida on the back end of their top list. LaBryan Ray is another tweener defensive lineman on the board that is too good to pass up, but Alabama is in the driver’s seat for Ray.