TJ Searcy will head to the Swamp after announcing his commitment to the University of Florida. He chooses the Gators over Clemson and SEC rivals South Carolina and Tennessee.
The 6-foot-5, 250-pound DL received an offer from the Gators back in February. After an unofficial visit in March, he returned to Gainesville for an official visit in June. His commitment becomes the first major announcement on Independence Day.
Florida outside linebacker coach Mike Peterson is credited with recruiting Searcy to the Gators. Peterson is a former Gator and played in the NFL for 14 years.
“We’ve got a good relationship, me and coach Peterson. I love his resume. A lot of coaches, like, they’ve coached at the next level but they haven’t necessarily played at the next level the way he did.”
– TJ Searcy
Where Does TJ Searcy Rank?
The four-star prospect currently plays football at Upson-Lee High School in Thomaston, GA. In his junior year, he compiled 50 total tackles, four tackles for loss, and two sacks. Searcy added two fumble recoveries.
Searcy ranks No. 235 on ESPN’s Class of 2023 Top 300 prospects. He received an 81 scout grade and currently places 33rd in the nation at the defensive end position.
https://twitter.com/tj_searcy23/status/1543963197195128832?s=20&t=mln7QUDktE3DpvziHLzvEw
In Conclusion
Searcy joins Isiah Nixon as the second edge rusher recruited to the Gators. With the Gators lacking players in the defensive front, adding TJ Searcy creates a sign of life on the depth charts.
Florida reels in its ninth commitment over the course of its recruiting process. Searcy becomes the sixth four-star athlete joining the Swamp. The Gators rank 38th in the nation on the 247Sports recruiting list.
The Gators finished with a 6-7 record last year and lost to UCF in the Gasparilla Bowl.