Two time All-SEC defensive tackle Ian Scott is returning home to join the Florida Gators staff as a graduate assistant, Jim McElwain announced on Tuesday afternoon.
“We are excited to have Ian back home in Gainesville,” McElwain said in a released statement. “His understanding of what it means to be a Gator and the plan needed to be successful will be invaluable to our players.”
Scott had a standout career at Gainesville High School where he was named to the 5A First Team All-State following his junior (1998) and senior (1999) seasons. He accepted a scholarship to the University of Florida to play under Steve Spurrier. Scott played in 32 games —23 starts — for Florida. He accumulated 120 tackles, 3.5 sacks, 18.5 tackles for a loss, 21 quarterback hurries, five pass deflections and two fumble recoveries.
Scott left Florida after his junior season and entered the NFL draft. He was selected 116th overall in the fourth round by the Chicago Bears where he played four seasons. Scott played three more seasons in the NFL with the Philadelphia Eagles and San Diego Chargers.
After his playing days Scott entered the corporate world, working as a Business Analyst for JPMorgan Chase & Co. Scott earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial and Systems Engineering. His only coaching experience was as a Defensive Assistant for Daniel High School in Central, South Carolina.
“I am extremely excited to be back in Gainesville and with the University of Florida family once again,” Scott said in a release. “The culture around this University and program is really special and I’m thrilled to work with Coach McElwain and his staff.”