If you haven’t noticed, the transfer portal is flooding with talent and the Florida Gators are prime to get a few. What was once expected to be a portal for players who weren’t starters at their former school is changing. Many of the new entrees into the transfer portal are starters. Not only that, but many of these starters were also stars at their former school.
Which is great news for the Florida Gators. This year’s transfer portal season might have the most value than it has ever had. With that being said, many are wondering if the transfer portal is more important than recruiting high school talent.
So, here are some transfer portal players Florida should go after.
Devin Leary, NC State Quarterback
At the beginning of the 2022 season, Leary was seen as a potential 1st round pick. The former Wolfpack quarterback was injured during the FSU game. He had to have season ending surgery to fix a torn pectoral muscle. However, the Florida Gators will only have one returning quarterback on the roster once the season ends. Starting quarterback Anthony Richardson decided to enter into the NFL Draft. And unfortunately, backup quarterback Jalen Kitna is in legal troubles that led to his dismissal.
Leary could be an immediate starter and leader for the Gators. Before his injury, Leary threw for 1,265 yards, 11 touchdowns, to just 4 interceptions. With Leary, the Gators could be a more formidable passing team then they were with Richardson. However, there will be competition coming to Florida. 4-Star quarterback Jaden Reshada will be enrolling to Florida early. Ultimately, the starting job will be Leary’s to lose.
Javion Cohen, Alabama Guard
The starting guard for Alabama has entered into the transfer portal looking for a new home. Cohen has played in many big games and has yet to allow a sack in his career. This stat alone is the reason he is arguably the most valuable prospect in the transfer portal.
The Florida Gators could use a reliable and veteran offensive lineman that can bring consistency to the position. Cohen would be the anchor of the line immediately. Although Anthony Richardson was sacked 14 time this year,
Ryan O’Keefe, UCF Wide Receiver
The fastest receiver in the state of Florida resided in Orlando. O’Keefe is an explosive wide receiver that can get passed a defense quickly. O’Keefe is no stranger to the Gators, in 2021 he torched the Gators in the bowl game for 251 all-purpose yards and a touchdown. The Gators could use a dynamic playmaker on their offense.
In 2022, O’Keefe caught 73 passes for 725 yards and 5 touchdowns. On the ground, O’Keefe rushed for 222 yards on 23 carriers.
Ultimately, in order for the Gators to return to the top they’ll need stars like these on the field.
