Top-100 OL Lucas Simmons has Gators in final group, sets commitment date

Less than a week from now, one of the nation’s premier offensive tackles will be putting the recruiting process behind him by teaming up with one lucky program.

Lucas Simmons, a 6-foot-7.5, 295-pound rising senior from Clearwater (Fla.) Academy International, has scheduled his commitment date for Monday, July 11.

Four schools remain under heavy consideration: Florida, USC, Tennessee and Florida State. Each program received an official visit over the last month as well.

According to On3’s 2023 Rankings, Simmons is the No. 7 offensive tackle and No. 87 prospect regardless of position. The Trojans, according to the On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine, hold the slight edge over the Seminoles. The Gators check in at the No. 3 spot.

“It will be one of those four schools. I like coaches at all of those schools and feel comfortable at each school, and now I just have to think about it,” Simmons recently told On3’s Chad Simmons.

“I’m working to separate what is best for me. I can’t just make a decision with my head, where my heart doesn’t follow. And I can’t just make a decision with my heart, where my head doesn’t follow. It needs to be combined and all on the same page for me and my family.”

What makes Florida a finalist for Simmons?

“I love the whole group Florida has working with the offensive line. They have five different coaches that could help develop me if I went there. I like that a lot,” Simmons said.

“Florida is a spot that without a doubt that I feel could develop me. From what they offer on the field to the film room to the weight room, that makes them stand out.”

The four-star prospect has visited the Gators four times since the beginning of this year, with the most recent trip taking place just over two weeks ago. That was for his official visit.

Simmons was also in the headlines during April’s Orange and Blue Game, as every member of the staff tweeted out “HejaGators” during pregame. That is Swedish for shouting a cheer. Rob Sale tweeted that upon arriving at Simmons’ school during the evaluation period as well.

When asked if he is attending UF’s recruiting cookout on July 30, Simmons was straight to the point.

“I’ll be there if I’m committed,” he said on Wednesday.

One school will need to check off several boxes in order to receive Simmons’ coveted commitment; however, it’s the people involved that are playing the biggest role down the stretch.

“Relationships are major for me,” Simmons said. “I can’t put my all into it unless I know the coaches are giving their all for me. If I know a coach would run through a brick wall for me, I would do the same for them. Relationships are vital for me.”

Inside the Film Room

Developmental offensive tackle prospect with rare dimensions, movement skills and upside. Originally from Sweden and came to the United States shortly after picking up football in high school.

Measured over 6-foot-7, 293 pounds with a 6-foot-11 wing-span prior to his senior season. A nimble, light-footed mover. Moves to the second level with ease. Bouncy and carries his weight very well. Posed a 4.66 second shuttle prior to his senior season.

Undeveloped technically and still learning the game. Will need to hone his technical skills while continuing to increase strength and physicality at the point of attack. Will likely need some time to be ready to play considerable snaps at the college level, but has considerable physical upside.

Very old for the class and will turn 20 years old mid-way through his senior year of high school.

Stay tuned to Gators Online.