Priority Gators DB Target Shares Commitment Date

On Monday, Mainland (Daytona Beach, Fla.) High School defensive back Zavier Mincey shared his intentions to declare his collegiate commitment at the All-American Game in San Antonio, Texas, on Jan. 6, 2024.

Mincey’s teased a late pledge several times throughout his process, but officially locked down the date for post-Early Signing Day. The timeline is rare in modern recruiting, given NIL's impact — getting players into the fold earlier than in years past — and the transfer portal.

The latter has become a popular choice for roster building, with most programs leaving a certain number of spots open to take experienced, ready-now players instead of prep prospects.

However, as the No. 85 overall prospect in the class, Mincey can afford to take his recruitment the distance.

Florida, specifically, will remain heavily involved in the fight for his services as position coach Corey Raymond attempts to add another long, athletic coverage man to the team’s cornerback room.

The Gators hosted Mincey on campus during their Week 3 victory over No. 11 Tennessee, alongside his teammate and fellow UF target, defensive end LJ McCray. It marked his fifth trip to Gainesville since April 2022, two more than any other prospective school.

Florida is in a firm position to acquire the versatile defensive back who would fulfill a cornerback role in the Gators secondary.

Fellow in-state programs, Florida State and Miami, are also in the mix. Alabama’s also got involved with the four-star as of late.

Billy Napier and Co. will look to fend off the others down the stretch to add Mincey to the No. 3 recruitment class in the nation.

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