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Different this time?

The Gators' track record with junior college signees has been poor

Updated: February 28, 2013, 6:15 PM ET
By Michael DiRocco | GatorNation

GAINESVILLE, Fla. -- Florida coach Will Muschamp has dipped pretty heavily into the junior college ranks in his past two signing classes, adding four players -- including three from East Mississippi Community College.

The Gators have not had much luck with junior college players over the past 13 seasons. Ten of the 14 players signed have turned out to be busts, with the only exceptions being cornerback Reynaldo Hill, defensive end Jeremy Mincey, and safety Reggie Nelson.

But the four players signed in the last two classes -- defensive tackles Damien Jacobs, Jarran Reed and Darious Cummings and offensive tackle Trenton Brown -- could be different. The reason? They all play positions at which the Gators are in need of a lot of help.

Jacobs signed in 2012 out of EMCC and had a solid season as part of UF's tackle rotation. He had 10 tackles and 2.5 sacks as the backup to Sharrif Floyd, who is projected to be a top-five selection in April's NFL draft. Jacobs, a 6-foot-3, 284-pound senior, is expected to take over as the starter alongside nose tackle Leon Orr.


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Michael DiRocco | email

Reporter, GatorNation
  • Reporter for GatorNation
  • Covers Florida Gators sports and recruiting
  • Joined ESPN in 2011

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