Florida Gators up there following Smith’s official visit

One of the biggest visitors on the Florida Gators campus this weekend was linebacker Nick Smith (6-3, 210, Orlando, FL. Dr. Phillips) who just recently decomitted from North Carolina State.

Smith picked up an offer from Florida in December and this weekend he had a good official visit to Gainesville he says.

“It was great, it was a great experience,” said Smith. “We were able to meet with academic advisors and explore the campus’ athletic and educational facilities. I also got to chill with a couple of the players like Marcell [Harris], Vosean [Joseph], Kylan [Johnson] and David [Reese.”

The linebacker got a chance to be hosted by one of his good friends and he had a strong message for Smith.

“Chauncey [Gardner] was my host,” said Smith. “He was telling me when I come there to be ready to play. He said that Coach [Randy] Shannon likes to play young guys who come in and are hard workers. That’s what I plan on doing.”

On Saturday and Sunday, Smith had the chance to meet one-on-one with defensive coordinator Randy Shannon who explained how the Gators will use the linebacker.

“He said that he wants me to come in and work as hard as I can to get on the field,” said Smith. “He says he needs young guys who are ready to make plays immediately. He thinks that I can play inside or outside linebacker.”

Head coach Jim McElwain met with Smith and his parents on Sunday and explained how choosing Florida is more than just a four-year decision.

“Coach McElwain just talked to me about what it’s to be a Gator,” said Smith. “He said that football doesn’t last forever and that the Gator family is strong outside of football. He also wants me to just come in and work so I can get in the scheme of things asap.”

Heading into this weekend’s visit the Gators were thought to be a legit contender for Smith and he says that’s the case because of the coaching staff.

“Florida is definitely up there for me,” said Smith. “I’ve developed a close relationship with Coach Mac, Coach Shannon and the other coaches on the staff at Florida. I like Florida.”

Last week Smith said that he was planning to visit LSU next weekend but he now says he’s unsure of a visit next weekend.

“I might visit LSU or Louisville maybe, nothing is set up,” said Smith. “Coach McElwain and Coach Dantonio are coming to see me this week and then I’m announcing my decision on signing day.”

 

INSIDERS TAKE: Florida is in good shape with Smith but a visit to LSU next weekend is still something to watch if he takes it. Smith has gotten close with Randy Shannon and that helps Florida out a lot. This one will definitely be one to watch as to where he goes next weekend.

Andrew Spivey
Andrew always knew he wanted to be involved with sports in some capacity. He began by coaching high school football for six years before deciding to pursue a career in journalism. While coaching, he was a part of two state semifinal teams in the state of Alabama. Given his past coaching experience, he figured covering recruiting would be a perfect fit. He began his career as an intern for Rivals.com, covering University of Florida football recruiting. After interning with Rivals for six months, he joined the Gator Country family as a recruiting analyst. Andrew enjoys spending his free time on the golf course and watching his beloved Atlanta Braves. Follow him on Twitter at @AndrewSpiveyGC.