Gators Edge Rusher Target Jordan Ross Commits to Tennessee

Vestavia Hill (Ala.) edge rusher Jordan Ross pledged to the Tennessee Volunteers over Florida, Alabama and Texas Monday.

The nation’s No. 37 player and No. 4 edge rusher Jordan Ross is officially off the board as the Vestavia Hill (Ala.) product announced his pledge to Tennessee Monday evening via On3 Sports’ YouTube channel.

He chose the Volunteers over Florida, Alabama and Texas.

The Gators’ SEC East foe — synonymous with a high-octane offense under Josh Heupel — gains a much-needed boost defensively in securing the 6-foot-4.5, 233-pound standup rusher.

He accounted for 49 tackles, 16 for loss and 2.5 sacks during his junior campaign.

Ross visited Gainesville on the first weekend of the summer, giving UF ample opportunity to secure his pledge when the decision time came. At one point after the visit, Florida sat beside Tennessee as the presumed favorite to earn Ross’ coveted commitment.

However, after winning over two players at Ross’ position in the 2024 cycle, the Gators staff seemingly cooled on Ross despite the evident talent and physical intangibles he provides for the JACK position.

Texas became the biggest challenger to Tennessee’s throne for Ross but his final visit to Knoxville (Tenn.) ultimately sealed the deal.

The Gators move forward with the nation’s No. 73 overall player and No. 6 edge rusher Jamonta Waller alongside Gainesville product Kendall Jackson to fill the JACK position.

Florida holds the third-ranked commitment class in 2024.

They’ll look to stay there in the ensuing months by producing their best efforts to acquire remaining priority targets like defensive end LJ McCray, offensive tackle Jordan Seaton and cornerback Zavier Mincey.

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