Gators DB Target Announces Top Six, Commitment Date

Florida landed in the top six for 2024 safety Gregory Smith III on Sunday. He’ll announce his commitment on Dec. 13.

Florida, amid another exodus of talent from the program via the transfer portal and the vacancy of two assistant coaching positions, continues to remain involved on the recruiting trail as the clock ticks down on the 2024 cycle. 

Among the remaining Gators' targets is late-rising defensive back prospect Gregory Smith III. On Sunday, the Riverview, Fla., prospect included UF in his top six alongside Ole Miss, Toledo, USF, Vanderbilt and Virginia while setting Dec. 13 as his commitment date. 

Smith's seen a late surge in his recruitment process after factoring into the safety rotation for the first time during his senior year at Sumner High, after serving primarily at quarterback throughout his prep career.

Standing at 6-foot-4, 200 pounds, Smith possesses a promising frame with accompanying length, speed and functional ball skills to align as a ranging backend prospect. He proved productive in his lone year defensively, accounting for 29 tackles, one for loss, four pass breakups, one interception and a fumble recovery as a senior.

While Smith's done his due diligence in his search for a collegiate home, the Gators have long stood as the presumed favorite in his recruitment as he's reciprocated the interest UF has shown as it attempts to replenish a thin safety group.

However, Florida's release of position coach and primary recruiter Corey Raymond on Nov. 27 has created uncertainty regarding the under-the-radar in-state talent.

UF head coach Billy Napier and his staff will look to reiterate their desire to add him to the nation's No. 6 2024 recruiting class without Raymond on Friday, as Smith takes his final official visit before his commitment decision. 

Florida currently holds three commitments in the defensive back room in the 2024 cycle, highlighted by five-star safety prospect Xavier Filsaime, with safety Josiah Davis and cornerback Teddy Foster also occupying spots in the room.

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