Florida trending up with 5-star OT Samson Okunlola

Five-star Brockton (Mass.) Thayer Academy offensive tackle Samson Okunlola is officially visiting Florida this weekend, just a few weeks after he took a multi-day unofficial to Gainesville.

Miami was once the trending school to land the No. 16 prospect in the On3 Consensus, but the Gators have wrestled the momentum away. And Okunlola is now set to announce his commitment on December 15, just a few days after returning from the Swamp.

On3 Director of Recruiting Chad Simmons, who broke the news of Okunlola’s official visit plans, believes the Gators should be feeling good right now with the five-star offensive tackle.

“The one he visited last and the one he’s visiting this weekend: the University of Florida,” Simmons said Monday of which team has momentum. “Back to back trips to the Swamp; first time, he got there unofficially for a multi-day visit late last month. And now returning this weekend. In between, there was talking about him going to Ohio State; other schools are still in the mix like Miami, Michigan State, Alabama. But him visiting Florida back-to-back, then setting a commitment date a few days after he returns, you have to like where the Gators sit right now heading into the final week.”

Samson Okunlola Scouting Summary

“Aggressive offensive lineman with nimble movement skills and a positive athletic profile. Has plus length for the position at 6-foot-5, 295 pounds with a 6-foot-10.5 wing-span. Has shown good short area quickness in the camp setting. Also spends time as a wrestler and thrower in the shot put. Plays both ways at his high school as an offensive tackle and defensive lineman. Has some dominant flashes, particularly as a run blocker. Moves well to the second level, locating and blowing up linebackers on contact. Finishes blocks at a high rate and works to plant defenders into the turf. Shows similar emphatic finishing ability on defense, where he suplexes ball carriers at times. Plays low and understands leverage. Will need to continue developing his pass set technique. Could also stand to improve his ankle flexion a bit. Faces subpar competition and may need some time to adjust to the uptick in talent level once in college.”