Mike Gillislee became the fifth former Gator drafter in the 2013 NFL Draft when he was selected by the Miami Dolphins with the No. 164 pick overall.
Mike Gillislee developed a cult-like following among Gator fans. While the Gators struggled to run the ball against the best teams in the SEC with players like Chris Rainey and Jeff Demps, Gillislee sat patiently on the sidelines watching and waiting for an opportunity.
It took three seasons for that opportunity to present itself but when it did Gillislee was ready and took advantage of it.
In his only season as the starting tailback, Gillislee ran for 1,152-yards on 224 carries and scored 10 touchdowns. In rushing for over 1,000-yards, Gillislee became the first Florida running back to pass that milestone since Ciatrick Fason in 2004. He earned first team All-SEC honors in his senior season.
Gillislee is an ideal blend of size, speed, quickness and agility and his physical ability translates well to the next level. He is a more than adequate blocker and could be a three down back for the Dolphins.
Unlike a lot of the other running backs in the draft class, Gillislee doesn’t have as many miles on his legs due to not having starter reps until his senior season. In comparison to one of the running backs rated higher by most analysts, Montee Ball carried the ball 356 times last season. Gillislee has just 380 career rushing attempts.
Gillislee has some experience as a kick returner and he could be used in that role as a rookie. One thing is sure about Gillislee; he’s going to come in, work hard and be a team player. With only Daniel Thomas and Lamar Miller in front of him, Gillislee could contend for playing time right away.
Gillislee joins Mike Pouncey, Jordan Reed and Caleb Sturgis in Miami.