Florida is looking for playmakers to fit into Kurt Roper’s new offense and last Friday the Gators offered an Under Armour All-American.
That All-American was receiver Isaiah McKenzie (5-8, 165, Plantation, FL American Heritage) who received a call from the Gators the day after the All-American game.
“Coach T-Rob got in touch with me and offered me,” McKenzie said. “He told me that they could use me and I could get a lot of playing time there. T-Rob said that I can play special teams and that he thinks I can make some plays for Florida.”
McKenzie has never met Florida’s new offensive coordinator Kurt Roper but he does know a good bit about his offense and style of play.
“Coach (Kurt) Roper’s offense benefits me a lot and my style of play,” McKenzie said. “The spread offense is good for me and I can play the slot receiver a lot. I’m sure they have some plays to get me the ball in that system on sweeps and other plays.”
With the late offer to McKenzie he says it’s not a big deal and he also plans to take an official visit to Gainesville soon.
“I plan to take an official to Florida on January 24th,” McKenzie said. “It’s not a big deal that it’s so late of an offer. My final decision hasn’t been made yet so it’s ok. I have to take all of my visits and find out which school is best for me and my future.”
McKenzie claims he’s committed to Notre Dame but the Irish media don’t claim his as a commit due to academics but Mckenzie says he’s still looking around.
“I’m committed to Notre Dame,” McKenzie said. “I really don’t know what it will take honestly. I just need to find out where I want to be at and where will help me the best as a player. I want to take an official on the 17th but I’m not sure where too yet. I haven’t taken any officials yet. I had to take the ACT and I did and I got a good score so I’m ready to take officials.
McKenzie played some running back during the Under Armour game and also played some receiver as well. As far as the next leve is concerned, McKenzie says he doesn’t care where he plays in college.
“Wherever they need me at I will play,” McKenzie said. “Whether that’s slot, receiver, running back or cornerback wherever they need me at I’ll play.”
Mckenzie plans to make a decision on National Signing Day and says he will have to choose whether to go away from home or stay in-state and close to home.
He would be an important player to get, since UF has a dearth of proven playmakers, perhaps he could be one that just doesn’t have potential ,but translates it to the field. If Notre Dame isn’t claiming him now that must mean that he’s doubtful to meet their standards.e
That’s correct it will be tough for him to get into Notre Dame but after watching him last week in Orlando, I can say that he’s an impressive player.