Dan Mullen may have just landed his biggest recruit yet. The difference is, he’ll only get him for one year- but what a year it could be.
Star defensive end Cece Jefferson has announced his intentions to pass up the NFL Draft and return for his senior year. Jefferson led the Gators with 13.5 tackles for loss last season (putting him at 18.5 for his career) and recorded 47 tackles altogether.
The motive could be the new 3-4 scheme the Gators are employing next year under new defensive coordinator Todd Grantham. Jefferson is naturally explosive off the snap, and giving him a more versatile role should help both his NFL stock and the Gator defense.
Tight end C’yontai Lewis also announced his intentions to return for his senior year. Lewis caught seven passes for 42 yards and a touchdown last year.