Offensive linemen are needed in Gainesville for the Florida Gators in a bad way and offensive lineman Parker Boudreaux (6-5, 291, Orlando, FL Bishop Moore) is one of the best prospects on the board.
Two weeks ago the Florida Gators sent area recruiter Geoff Collins and offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier made the short trip to Orlando to see Boudreaux in person and to also speak to his coaches.
“Coach Nuss and coach Collins came by two weeks ago,” Boudreaux said. “It was awesome to see them come by and they were telling my coaches how big of a priority I was to them. Coach Nuss told my coach that I was the top guy on their board and how they’re always talking about me.”
Head coach Jim McElwain and offensive line coach Mike Summers weren’t there to see Boudreaux but they are making sure to keep in contact with the talented lineman.
“I actually talk to a lot of Florida’s coaches through DM and on the phone,” Boudreaux said. “I talk to coach [Chris] Rumph, coach Mac, coach Nuss, coach Summers and coach Collins and coach [Drew] Hughes a lot. They all make sure that I know that I’m wanted in Gainesville.”
McElwain has a huge task in front of him in getting linemen to Gainesville but so far he’s doing a good job of impressing Boudreaux.
“Coach Mac just always tells me that he wants me to be a Gator and join the Gator family,” Boudreaux said. “We talk about how big the Gator community is after you graduate. He’s doing an awesome job recruiting and improving stuff so I know he means business.”
After losing offensive lineman Rod Johnson to injury the Gators are now in even more desperate need for linemen and that’s something Boudreaux has noticed.
“The need for linemen is very appealing to me right now,” Boudreaux said. “I know they only have like six or seven right now. There is obviously a great shot to come in and compete for a job early and compete again the best talent in the SEC. Florida is also pretty close by.”
The Gators will have plenty of opportunities this fall to impress Boudreaux as the Orlando product plans to be a regular in Gainesville.
“I haven’t been to a game since I was little so I plan to go to several game this fall since it’s close by,” Boudreaux said. “I remember that Florida had a crazy atmosphere so I’m ready to see it again this fall.”
This summer is likely to be a busy one for Boudreaux as he plans to take several trips to campuses around the country including an instate stop.
“I plan to visit Notre Dame this summer and then narrow it down to like a top 5 or something,” Boudreaux said. “I’m probably going to visit Florida this summer since it’s close by and I go up there anytime I want.”
INSIDERS TAKE: Florida is starting to build some momentum in Boudreaux’s recruitment and the Gators are clearly making sure to make Boudreaux feel wanted in Gainesville.
Really hope we get Parker. Sounds like we have a great shot. if I were a in-state lineman and took one look at our depth chart I’d be salivating at the chance to come in and be a 3-4 year starter immediately. Help turn this ship around and become a gator legend.
I think that’s what is helping Florida here in a big way.