2015 position breakdowns: TE

This is the fourth in a 10-part series looking at the positional needs and early targets for Florida football in the 2015 recruiting class.

The Gators currently have 19 scholarships available excluding walk-ons. With potential juniors leaving early and inevitable attrition, UF will likely sign 28-30 prospects next year.

Here’s a breakdown of the tight end position:

Returning players: DeAndre Goolsby, C’yontai Lewis, Moral Stephens, Colin Thompson
Verbal commits: Camrin Knight
Top targets: Bowman Archibald, Devonaire Clarington, Daniel Imatorbhebhe
Others offered: Chris Clark, Jackson Harris, Hale Hentges, Garrett Williams
The skinny: Despite signing three tight ends in February, UF will try to land two more in 2015 given the loss of seniors Clay Burton and Tevin Westbrook. The Gators already have one with Knight, their latest commitment. The 6-foot-4, 225-pounder is a bit raw at the position but shows athleticism and blocking ability on film. Two of Florida’s top in-state targets are leaning toward other schools in Archibald (Auburn) and Clarington (Miami). Harris and Williams have visited UF but are also favoring others, while Clark and Hentges look to be long shots.

As things stand now, Florida’s best shot at a second tight end could be Imatorbhebhe out of Suwanee (Ga.) North Gwinnett. UF was his first offer and communicates with him regularly. He is also teammates with Almonzo Brown, one of Florida’s receiver targets in 2015. An offer from Georgia might make things difficult for the Gators, but they are currently in good position with Imatorbhebhe.

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Previous position breakdowns:
Quarterback
Running back
Wide receiver