Redshirt freshman Chief Borders entered his name into the transfer portal on Monday afternoon.
Borders took to social media to announce his decision.
“To the Gator Nation, everything has to come to an end on day,” Borders wrote in a Twitter graphic.
“First and foremost, I want to thank God for giving me the strength and passion to play the sport I love. I want to say thank you, UF, for allowing me the beautiful opportunity to represent Florida. I’ve truly enjoyed the memories we shared and the milestones we have accomplished.
Thank you, Coach Dan Mullen, Coach Robinson, and Coach Grantham for recruiting me and giving me an opportunity to attend the University of Florida. I couldn’t thank the beautiful people enough who get out of their beds and cheer us on, win or loss.
Thank you to the people at Hawkins for helping me achieve my rigorous schedule and academic awards. Even on my lowest days, the people at Hawkins were there for me.
With that being said, I will be entering the transfer portal with three years of eligibility left,” Borders wrote.
“To my beautiful brothers, I would never forget the hardships we went through and the laughs we shared on our journey. I enjoyed the genuine energy we shared with each other. Our memories and love we passed on to one another will never be forgotten.
Thank you, Coach Napier, Coach Couch, Coach Toney, and Coach Peterson for giving me the opportunity to play for your team. I appreciated ever moment I spent being a part of the team. This year made me stronger by the moment, physically and mentally.
Thank you Gator Nation.”
The 6-4, 243-pound LB from Carrollton, GA was a four-star recruit in Florida’s 2021 class. He held offers from Michigan State, Stanford, and Georgia Tech among others.
Borders played in four games during his freshman campaign and redshirted, making his first career tackle against UCF in the Gasparilla Bowl.
In 2022, he appeared in in all 12 games in a special teams role. The outside linebacker played in just 14 defensive snaps this season.
Borders appeared in 232 special teams snaps this season, which is the 2nd highest behind Donovan McMillon (in portal). The Gators are down their two special teams contributors for their upcoming Bowl game against Oregon State.
Throughout his two seasons at UF, Borders totaled three tackles in limited playing time.
Borders will have three years of eligibility at his new college.