Florida DB Jordan Castell Named Freshman of the Week Nationally

Florida freshman safety Jordan Castell has received conference and national recognition for his play in Week 3 against Tennessee.

GAINESVILLE, Fla. -- Florida safety Jordan Castell continues to make a strong impression as a freshman starter for the Gators. 

Following his second consecutive contest as a first-teamer, a game in which Florida upset No. 11 Tennessee and the rookie defensive back reached double-digit tackles for the first time in his young career, Castell on Tuesday was named the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Week by the Maxwell Football Club.

Castell is the first Florida freshman to receive such recognition this season, although fellow Gators rookie, receiver Eugene Wilson III, made the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year watch list in the preseason.

Playing a crucial part in Florida's 29-16 dismantling of what was previously considered one of the most dangerous offenses in the FBS, Castell accumulated ten tackles and a pass breakup, the latter statistic recorded down the field on a third-quarter 2nd and 10, on Saturday against Tennessee. 

According to Pro Football Focus, Castell’s rush defense and tackling performances were graded as 78.9 and 75.4, respectively ranking second and fourth highest on the team in Week 3. His overall defensive grade of 82.8 was the highest on the team against Tennessee, too. 

PFF credited Castell for allowing only one catch for 16 yards across four targets in coverage. 

Florida head coach Billy Napier commended Castell's quick rise up UF's safety depth chart and his production against Tennessee, making note of the qualities the Orlando (Fla.) West Orange product displayed as a recruit. 

"I think when I really knew I thought he could be special is when I went to his school, and you see him in that environment. You see him interact with teachers and administrators. He was a leader, just a guy that had a lot of presence about him," Napier described Castell. 

"Showed up in January and has been about his business. Ultimately he's playing well as a rookie for us. Great play on the deep ball. Most kids panic, they get a [pass interference] or — that was impressive." 

Castell on Monday was also named the Southeastern Conference's Freshman of the Week for his showing against the Volunteers.

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