Arik Gilbert moves to Florida as tight ex-LSU five-star prospect chooses Gators as destination

Florida landed an entry Sunday from LSU transfer tight winger Arik Gilbert, who was the nation’s No.1 tight prospect in the 2020 recruiting class, according to the 247Sports Composite rankings. Gilbert had 35 catches for 368 yards and two touchdowns in 10 games for the Tigers as a rookie.

“After careful consideration, I have decided to commit to the University of Florida,” Gilbert wrote in a message. posted on Twitter. “It’s the best situation for me and I am delighted to be joining the family.”

Landing Gilbert is expected to go a long way in helping the Gators replace all-star tight end Kyle Pitts, who is heading to the NFL draft after catching 12 touchdown passes in just eight games for Florida as a junior this season. 2020. When Gilbert entered the transfer portal in early January, it immediately became one of the main commodities in the transfer market.

The Marietta, Ga. Native was ranked No.5 overall at any position in the 2020 class by 247Sports Composite and had an extensive offer list of many of the best programs in the country. Gilbert lived up to the hype with LSU last season, despite the Tigers struggling to get consistent quarterback play while replacing Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Joe Burrow.

Gilbert’s status at Baton Rouge was called into question at the end of the season, however, as 247Sports reported he had missed training and was considering leaving the program. He will return to Baton Rouge in October, while Florida are scheduled to play at LSU on October 16.