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Gators Push Forward in Elite DL Elijah Griffin's Recruitment

Florida moved forward in contention for elite 2025 defensive lineman Elijah Griffin as he named the Gators to his top 12.

Brandon Carroll

Gators Push Forward in Elite DL Elijah Griffin's Recruitment
Gators Push Forward in Elite DL Elijah Griffin's Recruitment /
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Florida is moving forward in contention for the highest-rated defensive tackle prospect in the 2025 class, Elijah Griffin.

The elite trenchman included the Gators alongside Georgia, Colorado, Louisville, Miami, Clemson, LSU, South Carolina, Southern California, Oregon, Duke and Alabama in the top 12 schools list he released via On3 Sports on Sunday evening. 

Operating as the most polished 2025 interior defensive lineman in the country, Griffin has displayed a rare blend of strength and athleticism when working against opposing offensive linemen both as a run-stopper and pass rusher throughout his prep career. 

These attributes catalyzed his dominance and disruptiveness in opposing teams backfield as a junior, accounting for a career-best 97 tackles, 31 TFLs, 17.5 sacks, three pass breakups and an interception in 14 games for Savannah (Ga.) Christian Prep.

A versatile role along the Raiders' defensive front over the past three seasons enabled Griffin to showcase his all-encompassing talents. His burst off the line and speed in pursuit off the edge complements his power when going head-up with guards and centers on the interior. 

It's also caught the Gators' eye. 

Florida aims to reel the 6-foot-5, 285-pounder to fulfill a multitude of roles while expectedly operating, although he'll primarily align in the team's 'END' iDL role. 

Griffin trekked to Gainesville for the first time in January, opening face-to-face communication with newly named defensive line coach Gerald Chatman.

There is currently no set timeline for Griffin's commitment. Still, the 12 named schools will vigorously vie for his services down the stretch of his recruitment, given the potentially program-altering skillset he showcases from the defensive frontline.

Griffin ranks as the nation's No. 1 defensive lineman and No. 3 overall player in the 2025 cycle, according to 247Sports' composite rankings.

Stay tuned to All Gators for continuous coverage of Florida Gators football, basketball and recruiting. Follow along on social media at @AllGatorsOnFN on Twitter and All Gators on FanNation-Sports Illustrated on Facebook. 

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Brandon Carroll
BRANDON CARROLL

Brandon Carroll is a recent graduate of the University of Florida. He serves as the lead reporter for the Florida Gators FanNation-Sports Illustrated website, covering football, basketball and recruiting. When he isn't hard at work, he enjoys listening to music, playing flag football and basketball, spending time with his friends and family, and watching an array of television shows. Follow him on Twitter @itsbcarroll.

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