Ricky Pearsall reflects on time at Florida, says he expects 'big things' in future

After starting his career at Arizona State, Ricky Pearsall opted for a change of scenery. He entered the transfer portal and became a key piece of Billy Napier’s first roster at Florida in 2022.

It turned into an impressive two-year stretch in Gainesville as Pearsall totaled more than 1,600 yards in that time. He’s now hoping to hear his name called in the NFL Draft, but during an appearance on The Paul Finebaum Show, Pearsall reflected on his time with the Gators.

He also had high praise for Napier and the staff as they get ready for Year 3.

“I enjoyed every part of it, really,” Pearsall said of his two seasons at Florida. “Coach Napier does a fantastic job over there, along with the rest of the coaches over there. They had a really good group of people in my corner and I can’t thank them enough. All the improvement I have had the last two years, I owe it all them. They’re very detailed in their work over there.

“Coach Napier changed the culture, that’s for sure. Other guys are just going through another year with him and trusting him more. We’re expecting big things from them coming up.”

Ricky Pearsall: Everybody should be on Tre Wilson in 2024

Pearsall had a solid 2022 season with 661 yards and five touchdowns, and he followed it up with an impressive 2023 campaign. He totaled 965 yards and four touchdowns to lead Florida, while also adding two rushing touchdowns in his three attempts.

Now, the Gators are further looking to some of the young players who seemed to find their stride last year. Pearsall pointed to one in particular who could play a big role in 2024 – Eugene “Tre” Wilson III. He put together a strong freshman year with 538 receiving yards to finish second only to Pearsall, who thinks his young protege could take a leap in his sophomore season.

“There’s a lot of talented guys over there,” Pearsall said. “There’s a lot of young guys that are up and coming. One of the dudes I was mentoring over there, a young guy by [the name of] Tre Wilson, he’s extremely talented. I think everybody should be on him after this season coming up. I want to highlight him. He’s a tremendous player.

“And obviously, Graham Mertz is over there too. He’s one of my good buddies to this day. And I expect him to have a great season too, as well. I expect big things over at the University of Florida.”

Florida will kick off its tough 2024 schedule Aug. 31 against Miami.