The Florida Gators picked up a big transfer at running back last year in Demarkcus Bowman but they’re looking for their back for the 2022 class.
One name that’s high on the board is running back is Gi’Bran Payne (5-10, 190, Cincinnati, OH. LaSalle) who says he talks to the Gators often.
“They’re recruiting me hard,” Payne said of Florida. “I’ve been in contact with every coach on staff from time to time but mostly Coach [Greg] Knox and Coach [Dan] Mullen.”
Running backs coach Greg Knox has explained to Payne how his game would be used in Florida’s offense if he comes to Gainesville.
“He wants me to use my versatility with how I run the ball,” he said on the message from Knox to him. “Also how I can be a receiver in the slot or out wide so they can throw me the ball. Coach Mullen says he loves my play and work ethic.”
Payne’s relationship with Knox is a strong one and the running back says they’ve been in constant contact for months now.
“It’s a very strong relationship, we talk every day,” Payne said of his relationship with Knox. “I like him because we’ve been talking every day since the day he offered me and he shows a lot of interest and keeps it real with you.”
Just last week Payne named a top-five of Florida, Alabama, Notre Dame, Northwestern, and Penn State and he explained why the Gators made the cut.
“They made it because of the relationships since day one,” he said on why Florida made his top five. “The success they had this past season and its Florida so why not, I have interest in them like everyone else in my top five.”
Payne hasn’t visited Gainesville yet but last week he did watch the Gators practice via the team’s Instagram.
“I just watched the practice but just from watching that I know they work hard,” Payne said of Florida’s practice. “That’s what I want to be around.”