The Florida Gators list of juniors leaving for the 2017 NFL Draft grew to five when defensive tackle Caleb Brantley decided to forego his senior season. Brantley released a letter to fans on SEC Country announcing his plans.
“For the past three years, I’ve had the privilege of playing for the University of Florida and Gator Nation. Now, I’m fortunate enough to start the next chapter of my life and career,” Brantley wrote. “I will be forgoing my senior season and entering the NFL Draft. Like many kids, this was always a dream for me. But to play in the NFL, you must be a professional and a person of good character. Those qualities aren’t easily attained where I come from.”
Brantley finishes his career with 81 tackles, 20 tackles for a loss, eight quarterback hurries and three forced fumbles.
Brantley made his biggest impact during this past season. Working as an interior defensive tackle Brantley finished with 31 tackles, 9.5 tackles for a loss, 2.5 sacks, three quarterback hurries and a forced fumble. Most of his career Brantley occupied double teams, opening up lanes for other linemen and linebackers. His combination of size, speed and power will have NFL teams coveting him when the draft rolls around.