Florida lands big in-state pledge
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* Video: Breakdown of new commit Burney
* Time for Rivals250 Burney to decide
* Newly minted Rivals100 member has top five
* Five Florida gained ground with in the spring
* Five Florida lost ground with in the spring
* Offer from Florida shakes things up for Upshaw
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It has been just over six weeks since Florida last received a commitment in the Class of 2018 – leaving many in the Gator Nation a little antsy as they have watched other targets come off the board while heading to other schools.
However, as of Thursday morning, the wait is over.
Florida finally got some good news.
No, make that great news as the No. 165 rated prospect in the nation, Clearwater (Fla.) Calvary Christian athlete Amari Burney, is now the Gators' top rated commitment.
“Family is what did it,” replied Burney when asked what was the most important factor that went into his decision. “My parents and I felt the most comfortable with the coaches. My parents wanted me to go somewhere where the coaches would, not just treat me like their son, but look out for me and take care of me in their place. It's my long term family.”
Family played a big part not only is his decision, but also when he scheduled to announce it as well.
In remembrance of his grandfather – Burney decided awhile back to make the most important decision on the birthday of a man who meant a great deal to him.
“This is for my grandfather,” Burney told Inside the Gators. “He passed away two years ago so he isn't here to see this but it's my birthday present to him.”
For most of the process Burney has had Florida and Ohio State as his co-leaders before narrowing it to a final three of Florida, Ohio State and Virginia Tech. While it may have seemed like the Gators were the leaders for much of the last several months, the Florida coaching staff wasn't able to rest easy knowing they got their man.
Burney didn't inform any of the staffs of his decision beforehand.
“I wanted everyone to find out at the same time,” Burney said. “I want to surprise everyone.”
The Rivals250 member explained why Florida was the pick
“Mainly I am good with all the coaches and from an academic standpoint they fit me. If you start as a DB for them, you are all but guaranteed to go to the league. Football, coaches, academics. It's like Ohio State but it's closer. They have it all.”
Though he has the speed and athleticism to play cornerback – or even on offense - if needed, he is being recruited specifically to play safety.
“My expectation is to contribute right away,” stated Burney. “I don't want to redshirt, I want to play right away.”
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