There’s a lot going on around the Florida football program during this time of the year. Transfers, dismissals, and players declaring for the NFL have swarmed Gator Nation the last few weeks. Most of that should be behind us, however, the Gators await a big decision from wide receiver Ricky Pearsall, who has the option to return for his last year of eligibility or declare for the NFL draft.
Pearsall spoke to the media after the Las Vegas Bowl game and said he’s undecided on his future.
“There’s a lot of aspects that go into it, but I’m still thinking about it and being patient with it,” Pearsall said. “I love being here and that’s a really important aspect for me and my decision. I love coach and all my teammates, and I’m proud of these guys.”
Pearsall finished the season as the Gators’ leading receiver, totaling 33 receptions for 661 yards (most since Kadarrius Toney in 2020) and five touchdowns. Pearsall proved his versatility in Florida’s offense, adding 113 yards rushing and a touchdown on the ground.
Pearsall was the go-to receiver in critical passing downs this season. 27 of Pearsall’s 33 receptions went for a first down, and 28 of them went for double digit yards.
The 6-1, 200-pound receiver graded as Florida’s 2nd highest offensive player behind All-American lineman O’Cyrus Torrence. His passing grade of 80.4 ranks 1st on the team by a comfortable margin, according to PFF. He also ranked 3rd in run block amongst Gators’ receivers. Pearsall was not penalized a single time for Florida after being penalized five times last season at Arizona State.
Is Pearsall good enough to turn pro right now? Absolutely. Do I think he could benefit from another season? Absolutely.
Although Pearsall was effective all year long, his timing with QB Anthony Richardson wasn’t always there. Pearsall was targeted 57 times yet totaled just 32 receptions, a catch rate of just 56.14%, according to Secstatcat. Pearsall did drop quite a few passes that hit his hands, but most of the time they were inaccurate passes that led Pearsall to try and make an athletic catch.
I think Pearsall would benefit from a more accurate QB, and one that is efficient in short and intermediate routes. Richardson wasn’t successful in those areas this season. As a slot receiver, that can be costly.
Uncertainty at the QB position is a concern for me, and that could be a determining factor in Pearsall’s decision. However, Pearsall proved on Saturday that he can thrive in any offense and with any QB.
I can’t stress enough how important Pearsall’s decision is for this Florida Gators team. If you don’t believe me or the advanced statistics, go turn on the game tape, it speaks for itself. Pearsall is a play maker with verified speed and elite route running ability.