The Florida Gators’ coaching staff is desperately looking to add another defensive end for the Class of 2013.
Auburn commitment Somerville (N.J.) Immaculata defensive end Tashawn Bower officially visited Florida this weekend.
“It went well on the visit, I would rate it an 8 out of 10,” Bower said. “I really liked everything they have to offer. The weight room was great. They showed me how I could get bigger, faster and stronger in there. They don’t only get you ready for the season but they get you ready for the NFL. (UF strength and conditioning) coach (Jeff) Dillman was telling me about injury prevention and he could put weight on me and make me faster.”
This wasn’t the first trip to Gainesville for the 6-foot-5, 241-pound Bower, so he has seen some of the facilities before.
“I took an unofficial to Florida two summers ago,” Bower said. “So I have seen a lot of stuff and everything is nice the weight room and the locker room is huge. I really like how the campus is setup and everything is beautiful.”
During the visit the Auburn commitment was able to sit down with Gators coach Will Muschamp to discuss how he would be utilized at Florida.
“Coach (Will) Muschamp told me he wants me bad and he really needs me at Florida,” Bower said. “He said that I would play the Buck linebacker in their defense. He said that in the 3-4, I would be standing up rushing. And in the 4-3, I would have a hand on the ground rushing.”
Bower was also able to meet new defensive coordinator DJ Durkin and he came away impressed.
“He is a good guy and very cool to talk to,” Bower said. “He said not much will change as it’s still coach Muschamp’s defense. Me and him sat down and watched a lot of film from last year and he showed me where I would be playing as the Buck and stuff.”
Freshman tight end Colin Thompson hosted Bower on the visit. According to Bower, all of the players treated him well and made him feel comfortable.
Next up for Bower is an official to LSU followed by unofficial to Auburn. After that a decision will come for Bower on signing day.