Linebacker Mohamoud Diabate has become the sixth Gator to enter the transfer portal since the end of the regular season and the second starter.
Diabate began his career as a pass-rushing specialist in 2019. He played in all 13 games, started one and made a career-best three sacks against Vanderbilt, including one that resulted in a fumble that was returned for a touchdown.
Due to depth concerns, Diabate was moved to a more traditional linebacker position in 2020. The transition was a little rough at first, but he improved as the year went on. He made 69 tackles (second most on the team), seven tackles-for-loss, 1 1/2 sacks, an interception, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. He turned in back-to-back double-digit tackle games against LSU (11) and Alabama (10).
Following Ventrell Miller’s season-ending arm injury in week two of this season, Diabate slid inside and played middle linebacker in some situations. He’s played in all 12 games, with 10 starts, and he leads the team with 89 tackles. He made a career-high 12 stops at South Carolina.
Following the loss to LSU, Diabate subtly criticized then-defensive coordinator Todd Grantham and the defensive scheme. Shortly after the season ended, he criticized UF’s nutrition program in a series of tweets.
So, it was clear that he was displeased with some aspects of his experience at Florida. Still, it’s a bit of a surprise to see him enter the transfer portal before seeing what improvements new coach Billy Napier will bring to the program.
Diabate will have two seasons of eligibility remaining.