I’ve been dreading writing this introduction. The topic of Gators secondary play has been bludgeoned to death time and time again over the past two years and the hiring of Corey Raymond threw that into overdrive. The struggles this team has had in creating consistent pass coverage in any game situation despite sending players to the NFL every year points the finger squarely at coaching malpractice, so the Gators hired the best cornerbacks coach out there. Case closed?
Well, not exactly. Unlike last season, the Gators are entering this year with a thin depth chart at the position and only two players with significant on field experience in the SEC. Additionally, some became frustrated with Jason Marshall Jr., who was a five-star freshman and the crowned successor to the Gators’ defense, because he was penalty prone. Can the Gators dig out of that hole so quickly? Let’s take a look at the corners Florida has on the roster and what they bring to the table.
For our previous spring camp previews, click these links: Quarterbacks, Running Backs, Wide Receivers.
Overview
Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Cornerbacks on roster:
Avery Helm
Jaydon Hill
Jalen Kimber
Jason Marshall Jr.
Devin Moore
Ethan Pouncey
Jordan Young
Avery Helm was one of the Gators’ three regular starters that rotated through the outside cornerback position, sharing his side with Marshall Jr. opposite Kaiir Elam. When Helm wins, it’s usually because he’s a better athlete than the guy lined up across from him. He reportedly ran the 40-yard dash in 4.3-seconds and jumped a 40-inch vertical last offseason, which, if accurate, are good enough to beat out most speedy receivers and most jump ball receivers.
Jason Marshall Jr. earned starting reps as a freshman, a tough thing to do even for a five-star under Dan Mullen. He was given a ton of praise before the season…
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