Florida pulls ahead late to land Jack Pyburn's commitment

Heading into the final weekend before Signing Day, Auburn had the edge for Jacksonville (Fla.) Bolles EDGE Jack Pyburn.

The 6-foot-4, 260-pound three-star took an official visit to Florida, picked up an offer from the Gators during the visit, and he has committed to the in-state school.

“This was so stressful and so difficult,” Pyburn told On3. “I thought it was down to Auburn and Miami, two great schools, and then Florida came in.

“I took that visit and loved it. Now I am a Florida Gator baby!”

Pyburn did grow up a fan of the Gators, so that only helped Billy Napier and his staff in this race. But there was a lot more to this decision than growing up cheering for the orange and blue.

“I thought about this late on Monday and had deep talks with my family for three hours last night about this decision. After sleeping on it, I knew it was going to be Florida.

“I believe in coach Napier, his plan, and his vision. That is what it came down to. His plan and what he wants to do checks all the boxes for me.

“Auburn had the lead not too long ago, but what I saw in coach Napier over the weekend made a big impact on me. We both have a lot of passion for the Gators.”

Pyburn will now be able to rest a lot easier. A lot of this happened in the last few weeks for him. He entered the year as a Minnesota commit and he commits to Florida, his dream school, on Feb. 1.

“This was grueling, to be honest,” Pyburn added. “This was not an easy, no-brainer decision for me. Auburn, Florida, and Miami gave me a lot to think about, and I knew I couldn’t go wrong.

“It means so much to say I am going to Florida now. I have so much passion for the school. They will get my grit, toughness, and determination. I am aiming to be a Gator great!”