Billy Napier continues to repair Florida’s offensive line with the addition of Kentucky transfer Kiyaunta Goodwin.
The Florida Gators’ social media team announced the 6-8, 340-pound offensive lineman’s commitment on Wednesday morning.
“Be like Kiyaunta. Welcome to the Swamp,” they wrote on Twitter.
Goodwin was originally a member of the 2022 recruiting class, playing ball at Charlestown High School in Indiana. Goodwin had quite the offer list out of high school and was perceived as one of the better tackle prospects in the country.
The Indiana native spent one season with the Wildcats, playing in three games along the offensive line and totaling just five snaps (all at left tackle). Goodwin wasn’t able to redshirt because he played in all 12 games on special teams, totaling 51 snaps on field goal kicks. I find it odd that a staff would waste a year of eligibility from a highly touted prospect with a minimal role on special teams, but that’s Kentucky did.
Goodwin entered the transfer portal on December 16th, 2022, and visited Florida the weekend of January 20th, 2023.
Florida received his commitment over Louisville, where Goodwin reportedly has family ties.
This is a great addition to the class, especially after Kamryn Waites recently suffered a torn Achillies, likely sideling him for the entire 2023 season.
It’s unclear whether Goodwin will be able to contribute right away after playing very minimally in Lexington, but his massive frame and physical tools should excite Gator Nation. If Goodwin isn’t prepared to contribute or isn’t needed to, the staff has his redshirt year to fall back on.
Before committing to Florida, Goodwin was enrolled in classes at the University on Tuesday afternoon. He’ll join the team for spring football.
Goodwin joins Damieon George (Alabama) and Micah Mazzccua (Baylor) as offensive line additions this offseason.