LOOK: Florida assistant visits Gators 4-star DL commit Kelby Collins

Florida pulled off a major recruiting coup in August when it plucked four-star Gardendale (Ala.) defensive lineman Kelby Collins out of the Yellowhammer State and away from both Alabama and Auburn.

But winning the first time around is only half the battle. The Crimson Tide have remained in pursuit of the nation’s No. 7 defensive lineman, even getting him on campus last weekend for the Iron Bowl.

On Saturday, Florida defensive coordinator Patrick Toney was back out on the recruiting trail working to keep the Gators’ second highest-ranked recruit in the fold with an in-home visit.

Had great home visit with @PToney today #GoGators pic.twitter.com/Gsc0jmcE3C

— Kelby Collins (@kelby_collins) December 3, 2022

Collins has largely remained in contact with only the Crimson Tide since his commitment to Florida, and there is still a possibility he could return to Tuscaloosa for an official visit before the Early Signing Period on December 21. But the Gators are keeping the full-court press on him, and head coach Billy Napier will do an in-home visit of his own between now and signing day in hopes of locking things in.

Kelby Collins Scouting Summary

“Highly productive, big-framed defensive lineman who could play a number of spots along the front. Measured at 6-foot-5, 278 pounds with a 6-foot-6 wing-span prior to his junior season. Has been a dominant high school defensive lineman for a few seasons. Totaled 20 tackles for loss and 12 sacks as a junior. Frequently in opposing backfields, using quick and strong hands to disengage from blocks.

…A fluid mover who closes quickly behind the line of scrimmage. A strong run defender and chases down plays from the back side. Could line up as a big defensive end or move inside at the next level pending on his size. Lacks high end length for the position relative to other highly-ranked peers.”