University
of Florida redshirt junior tight end Jordan Reed (New London, Conn.) announced
on Friday that he will enter the 2013 NFL Draft and forgo his final year of
eligibility with the Gator football program. Reed joins junior defensive back Matt
Elam (Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.) and junior defensive lineman Sharrif
Floyd (Philadelphia, Pa.) in stating their intentions to begin a
professional career.
“It’s
been a dream for all three of these players to pursue a career in the NFL and
now they are all getting a chance to realize that dream,” said head coach Will
Muschamp. “We are very thankful for their contributions to the Florida
football program over the years and we wish them the very best of luck in the
pursuit of their dreams.”
“We
will support them 100 percent and I look forward to them continuing to be a
part of our program. I have encouraged each of them to return to Gainesville to
complete their degree – as I’ve told all of our players – there will be a day
when their football careers are over. Matt, Sharrif and Jordan all received
high marks in the draft evaluation process.”
Chosen
first-team All-SEC by the Associated Press and a second-team selection by the
league’s coaches, Reed was the Gators’ top receiver in 2012, registering team
highs in receptions (45), yardage (559) and average yards per game (43.0). His
12.4-yards per reception was second on the Orange and Blue, as was his total of
three touchdown catches.
“I’ve
enjoyed four good years at Florida, but I feel that now is the right time to pursue
my dream of playing in the NFL,” said Reed. “I appreciate the support from all
the coaches and staff here, and I’ll always be a Gator.”
One
of the top defenders in the SEC, Elam was a first-team All-American from
Associated Press, CBSSports.com, Sporting News and Sports Illustrated and was a
second-team honoree by Walter Camp this season. He led the Gators with four
interceptions and was second on the team with 76 tackles, 58 of which were
solo. Elam had 11 tackles for loss, five pass breakups, two sacks and forced
one fumble.
“I’ve
had three great years here at the University of Florida,” Elam said. “I’ve had
a lot of advice during the process and I feel like it’s the right decision for
me and my family.”
Floyd
earned first-team All-American recognition from Sporting News and was a
third-team recipient from the Associated Press. He recorded 46 total tackles on the
year for the Gators and led the team in tackles for loss with 13 for a loss of
52 yards. Floyd also had six quarterback hurries, three sacks, two blocked
kicks and one forced fumble.
“I
sat down and talked to a lot of people about my decision and I’m going to go in
the draft this year,” said Floyd. “All my focus was on my team and on this
season. Now it’s time to move on. The coaches supported my decision and I’m
ready.”
