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Florida Makes 'Solid' Offer to Transfer From Rival College Football Program

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Grant Bricker | Last updated Apr 25, 2025 2:29 PM ET

The Florida Gators are not afraid to pursue players from rival college football programs, especially those in the same state.

Per On3's Blake Alderman, the Gators have reportedly made a "solid" NIL offer to former Miami Hurricanes safety Zaquan Patterson. Alderman stated that NIL is a factor in Patterson's decision.

Patterson visited Florida on Wednesday and the Ole Miss Rebels on Tuesday. The safety is reportedly visiting the Tennessee Volunteers over the weekend and is scheduling a visit with the Oklahoma State Cowboys soon.

Landing Patterson would add depth to the secondary after losing safety Gregory Smith III to the transfer portal on Tuesday.

"We’ve heard NIL is a factor in Patterson’s decision-making process," Alderman said. "Sources tell Gators Online the Gators have a solid offer in the NIL department."

Patterson was a former four-star prospect in the 2024 class. He is the No. 17 safety in the On3 Transfer Portal Industry Rankings. He is a native of Hollywood, Florida, and attended Chaminade-Madonna Prep.

He spent one season with Miami and accounted for 19 total tackles and three pass breakups in 12 games.

Florida has added five players from the transfer portal so far. The Gators' transfer commits include quarterback Harrison Bailey (Louisville), receiver J. Michael Sturdivant (UCLA), safety Michael Caraway Jr. (Southern Miss), edge rusher Kofi Asare (UMass) and punter Tommy Doman (Michigan).

Florida's secondary could use a boost after allowing the 11th-most passing yards (227.5) per game in the SEC last season.

Head coach Billy Napier goes into his fourth season with the Gators in 2025. He recently achieved his first winning season and bowl win in 2024 after finishing 8-5.

Florida takes on Long Island in its season opener on Aug. 30.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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