Four-star Carter chooses Florida over Clemson

Zachary Carter’s most recent visit may have been to Clemson, but when it came time for the Rivals100 defensive end to choose a school on Friday afternoon, it was in-state Florida, not the Tigers, that had reason to celebrate.

The four-star prospect had been leaning toward the Gators for some time. The fact that he recently spent nearly a week on the campus of Clemson, his other finalist, only helped confirm his gut feeling.

On Friday, Carter spoke with confidence about his decision.

“Florida has always been my dream school growing up,” he said. “I felt like, after that last visit to Clemson, picking Florida was the right thing to do. I visited both of them quite a few times to make sure I was making the right decision. I feel like Florida is right.”

According to Carter, the Gators’ coaching staff sees him as a versatile defensive weapon. His 6-foot-4, 235-pound frame will apparently be used in a number of ways in Gainesville.

“They told me that I’m a rush end, but I’ll play strongside also,” Carter said. “So that’s sorta what they’re talking about now anyway.”

Carter, who attends Tampa (Fla.) Hillsborough High School, is ranked as the No. 2 strongside defensive end and the No. 62 overall prospect in the 2017 class. He chose Florida over fellow finalist Clemson but also over a long list of other major scholarship offers.