The Florida Gators continued their romp along the recruiting trail this summer adding Rivals100 defensive tackle Will Norman Saturday night. The addition of Norman comes as part of a three-day three-recruit sweep for the Gators that includes linebacker Jaden Robinson and defensive end Kelby Collins.

WHAT FLORIDA IS GETTING

Norman has earned his way into four-star status by taking on top interior offensive linemen with IMG Academy. The Ascenders defense was stout last season thanks to the tone setter on the line of scrimmage they have in Norman. Norman is every bit the 6-foot, 5-inch, 290-pound frame. The Gators are getting a true defensive tackle that can dominate inside against SEC teams.

WHAT MAKES NORMAN DIFFERENT

Beyond having the ideal size for a defensive tackle, Norman has the strength to go with it. Norman can take on double teams creating space for his linebackers. If left in a one-on-one situation, he can put pressure up the middle helping collapse the pocket. The interior defensive guys are not always athletic, but Norman is. The Gators are picking up a top talent for their 2023 class.

WHY THIS IS BIG FOR THE GATORS

The move jumps Florida into the top-10 of the Rivals’ team recruiting rankings. As the focus was being put on in-state rival Miami, the Gators has pushed past their counterparts. The two-way battle to own the Sunshine State will continue, but this race just got even more interesting.

Looking at the early collection of talent in the 2023 class on defense, this group is going to be nasty. Head coach Billy Napier has stocked up with four defensive ends. Adding Norman makes this group a fearsome lineup. Sharif Denson, Jakeem Jackson, and Jordan Castell are excellent defensive backs that will reap the benefits of having the big guys on the line harassing quarterbacks for four quarters.

IN HIS WORDS

“With Florida, and me going to IMG, I am in their backyard,” Norman said. “That’s their dream to keep me home. Going there, I feel like it would be all love.”