Gators’ wide receiver Chimere Dike is participating in his second straight all-star game as he joins linebacker Shemar James, defensive lineman Cam Jackson, and punter Jeremy Crawshaw at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama. Dike played in the Hula Bowl with running back Montrell Johnson and wide receiver Elijhah Badger three weeks prior.
Dike has impressed throughout the first two days of practice, showing the ability to win one on ones despite poor quarterback play at times.
“It’s a really good learning opportunity for all the players out here. New environment, new coaching, just go out there and compete and get better,” Dike said on his first few days of practice.
The 6’0, 195-pound wide receiver doesn’t have a standout trait, which hurts his NFL Draft stock. However, Dike is really good in a lot of areas, making him an under the radar prospect. Dike told Gator Country that NFL teams want to see him win consistently this week.
“I think it’s just continuing to work and compete against these guys, show I can win consistently, I think that’s the biggest thing,” Dike said. “The good thing is I have a lot of college tape that they can go back and look at.”
Dike created a strong brotherhood with DJ Lagway, despite being several years older. After Florida’s bowl game on Dec. 21st, Dike said “Guys like DJ are the reason I want to play in this game, and I’m so excited for their future.”
“I think DJ [Lagway] obviously has all the talent and he works his tail off, all he wants to do is win, he’s super competitive, he definitely has the ‘it’ factor,” Dike said on Lagway.
Dike has high hopes for Florida’s offense next season.
“I think it will be great. I think Coach Napier will have these guys prepared, I know they’re gonna work really hard in the offseason. I’m just excited to be a fan and watch them and cheer them on.”