Running back Lamical Perine, a longtime Florida fan, committed to the Gators late last month.
However, he had yet to meet or speak with UF coach Jim McElwain or visit the school since the new staff took over.
Although Perine had no doubts about his pledge, Saturday’s visit to Gainesville did nothing but reaffirm the decision.
He and his family spent time with McElwain running backs Tim Skipper during the trip.
“It’s just amazing being out here, I love it,” he said. “I’m part of the family now. I talked to coach Mac and coach Skip, and I’m just comfortable. It feels good.”
The 5-foot-11, 211-pounder from Theodore, Ala., is one of seven commitments for the Gators over the past month, and he feels Florida’s 2016 class has the potential turn the program around.
“It’s headed in the right direction,” he said. “We got some good playmakers, and we’re going to do big things the next few years.”
Perine was being recruited by Alabama, Arkansas, LSU and Oklahoma prior to his pledge, and offers from those schools may come in the future.
“I’ll listen to them if they offer me,” Perine said, “but I’m fully committed to Florida and nothing can change that. I’m 100 percent.”
