Florida football: Gators extend offer to elite Alabama commit
By Will Thomas
Florida football is hard at work as they continue to put together their 2024 recruiting class. Lately, Napier has been extending offers to players committed elsewhere in the SEC in an attempt to poach them from their current school and send a message to the country.
His latest offer went out to 5-star DB Jaylen Mbawke, who’s currently committed to Alabama.
Mbawke, out of Pinson, Alabama, is one of the best overall recruits in the class of 2024. 247 Sports has him ranked as the 9th best player in the country, the 2nd best corner, and the top player out of Alabama.
Along with football, Jaylen also runs track, which has served him well on the football field. He has verified times of 10.46 in the 100 meter dash, and 21.71 in the 200.
His speed is eveident when you watch his film. While he’s listed as a DB, he plays a lot of wide receiver as well, where his wheels shine.
You know the saying “If he’s even’ he’s leavin?” You could be five yards in frong of Jaylen and the same principle applies. He’s gone.
His ability to fly by defenders trying to puruse, as well as make quick cuts to hit gaps is incredible for a guy who’s listed as a defender.
At the college level, there’s no reason that Mbawke can’t play both sides of the ball. Travis Hunter is doing it, and so can Jaylen.
At UF, that’s a plan that would work out very well for both parties. Jaylen would get to learn under Corey Raymond on the defensive side of the ball, and join the long line of receivers that Keary Colbert has produced. And the Gators would get one of the best playmakers in the clas of 2024. Win win.
Mbawke hasn’t taken any of his official visits yet. If the Gators can secure a weekend with Jaylen in The Swamp, they just may have a chance to flip him from Saban and the Tide.
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