Florida offensive linemen O’Cyrus Torrence has declared for the 2023 NFL draft.
Torrence took to social media to announce his decision.
“After careful consideration with my family, I have decided to forego my last year of eligibility and declare foe the 2023 NFL draft,” Torrence wrote in a Twitter graphic.
“First, I want to thank God, I am truly blessed to have the opportunity to chase my passion and dreams. None of this would be possible without him.
I want to thank my coaches at Florida and Louisiana for helping me become not only a better football player but also a better man. You challenged me every day to be the best version of myself.
I also want to thank my teammates. I will miss going to battle with you guys and all the fun times we had together. I will always treasure our memories from this journey.
While I was only a Gator for one year, I want to thank you Gator Nation for your support and making me feel like family. There’s nothing in the world like playing in the Swamp! However, I would have never been a Gator without Cajun Nation and UL. You believed in me at the beginning and provided me an opportunity to display my talent. Without that opportunity, I wouldn’t have been able to show the world what I am capable of!
Lastly, I want to thank my family for your support and the sacrifices you made to allow me the opportunity to chase my dream of playing in the NFL.
I look forward to the future as the best is still to come!”
The 6-5, 330-pound offensive guard was a low three-star prospect in the 2019 class out of St. Helena College and Career Academy in Greensburg, LA.
Torrence had offers from Southern Miss, South Alabama, Louisiana Tech, Middle Tennessee, and of course, Louisiana.
Torrence spent his first three seasons with the Rajun Cajuns before joining Billy Napier in the SEC for his 4th collegiate season, looking to prove to NFL scouts that he can play with the best of them. He did that, and more.
In 2022, Torrence didn’t allow a sack or commit a penalty through 11 regular season games and 698 snaps. His offensive grade of 88.2 makes him the highest graded guard in college football (656 eligible players), according to PFF. His run block grade of 89.9 was the 2nd highest in college football.
Torrence had one year of eligibility left due to the 2020 Covid year rule, but with the season he put together, the buzz around his name, and graduating from UF, returning doesn’t make a ton of sense.
Florida award Torrence with Offensive Player of the Year in tonight’s football banquet, along with receiver Ricky Pearsall.
Make sure you tune into the NFL draft on Thursday April 27th, as O’Cyrus Torrence has a high chance to be a 1st round selection.
Although Torrence did not specifically state he wouldn’t be playing in Florida’s Bowl game, I do not expect him to.