Florida Football: Three Intriguing Offseason Storylines to Know
Which incoming freshman will have the most significant impact on the 2019 Gators?
The obvious answer to this question is Florida’s top recruit cornerback Chris Steele, who was ranked as a 5 star by Rivals.com and 42nd in the nation by 247Sports composite.
Redshirt sophomore cornerback Marco Wilson is questionable to participate in spring practice because of an ACL injury that he suffered in game two of the 2018 season. So Steele has a great chance to get some early playing time if the veteran cannot go yet.
Even the coach staff mentioned that Steele would get significant time playing against the 1st team offense in practice
More from Southbound and Down
- Texas A&M vs. Auburn: Line, Prediction, TV Channel & Live Stream for SEC Football
- 3 Up’s, 3 Down’s from Georgia’s 24-14 Win Over South Carolina
- Ole Miss Football: Looking back at the Rebels career of Zedrick Woods
- Alabama vs. Ole Miss: Line, Prediction, TV Channel & Live Stream for SEC Football
- “Horns Down” will not be a Penalty in the SEC
However, Wilson is an elite corner himself, and I believe if he is healthy by the end of spring, then he will take back his starting spot, leaving Steele as a 2nd string player.
Therefore, the player I think will contribute the most in his first year is outside linebacker Mohammad Diabete.
Diabete ranked as the 6th best player in the class of 2019 at his position and participated in the Under Armour All American Game, which recognizes the best players in high school football.
Recruiting analyst John Garcia Jr said that Diabete, “Translates to a versatile defender who can play throughout front-seven, though most at home as pass-rusher. Great anticipation, first step off the ball with long stride to cover ground in a hurry. Good short-area explosion and can finish with power.”
This high praise sheds some light on the ability of Diabete and what he can bring to the table immediately.
Additionally, with Gator outside linebacker Vosean Joseph leaving for the NFL, the opportunity for playing time is there for Diabete. I expect him to start in Florida defensive coordinator Todd Grantham’s aggressive 3-4 defense as an outside linebacker.
He will start alongside senior linebacker David Reese at an inside linebacker spot, sophomore Amari Burney at an outside linebacker spot, and redshirt sophomore James Houston at an inside linebacker spot.
Florida’s spring camp starts in a matter of days. If the Gators want to continue where 2018 left off, then capitalizing on these three areas will be crucial for Mullen and his staff.