GAINESVILLE -- Florida entered National Signing Day in need of a few big names to bolster its recruiting class, and the Gators got one early.
St. Thomas Aquinas cornerback Marcus Roberson – rated as the second best at his position by Rivals.com — inked with UF to put the finishing touch on what should be a solid class of secondary players.
Among others, four-star defensive backs Jabari Gorman (Monsignor Pace) and Louchiez Purifoy signed letters of intent Wednesday.
Roberson’s signing ended a pinball-like recruitment. He formerly committed to Texas Tech and announced he would attend Auburn on Monday, then quickly changed his mind and decided to stay in state, where he’ll play for new UF defensive backs coach Travaris Robinson, a Miami native who coached for the Red Raiders last season.
The other big piece of good news came from Brooksville, where Nature Coast High receiver Ja’Juan Story also faxed the Gators a letter of intent. Story had been committed to Florida since June but had recently seemed destined for Ohio State, and the 6-foot-3. 190-pounder should be a good fit under pro-style offensive coordinator Charlie Weis.
While Dwyer High defensive tackle Elkino Watson spurned UF for USF, North Broward High defensive end Tevin Westbrook solidified his Tuesday commitment by signing with the Gators.
By 10 a.m., Florida had received 17 letters of intent.
