After saying he was “50-50” after Florida’s 33-23 loss against Louisville on Wednesday, Gators tight end Jordan Reed is now 100 percent sure of his future plans.
The school announced late Friday that the tight end has decided to skip his senior season to enter the 2013 NFL Draft, confirming a GatorCountry.com report from a week ago.
Reed has led the Gators in receptions in each of the past two seasons after switching from quarterback to a full-time tight end. The 6-foot-3, 243-pounder from New London, Conn., had more than 73 catches for 866 yards and five touchdowns over the past two seasons.
Reed is one of three Florida players who plan to declare for this year’s draft. Safety Matt Elam and defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd announced their intentions after Wednesday’s game.
“It’s been a dream for all three of these players to pursue a career in the NFL and now they are all getting a chance to realize that dream,” Florida coach Will Muschamp said in a release. “We are very thankful for their contributions to the Florida football program over the years and we wish them the very best of luck in the pursuit of their dreams.”
“We will support them 100 percent and I look forward to them continuing to be a part of our program. I have encouraged each of them to return to Gainesville to complete their degree – as I’ve told all of our players – there will be a day when their football careers are over. Matt, Sharrif and Jordan all received high marks in the draft evaluation process.”
With Reed’s departure, Florida will look for another pass catching tight end and may have one already in Kent Taylor, a true freshman who caught a touchdown pass in the Sugar Bowl. Clay Burton, Colin Thompson and Tevin Westbrook also will be in the mix. Thompson redshirted this season after having a second foot surgery in August. He did dress out for his first career game on Wednesday.