LB Adarius Hayes 'Locked In' With Florida, Recruiting for Gators

Photo: Adarius Hayes; Credit: Alex Shepherd

If there was any doubt regarding Largo (Fla.) High 2024 linebacker Adarius Hayes' commitment to the Gators, it was removed by the conclusion of his June 2-4 official visit to Florida.

Outside programs can continue calling in hopes of securing the 6-foot-4, 210-pound defender's services, but Hayes doesn't plan to pick up the phone.

"Other people are still trying but I've told other people, I'm locked in with the Florida Gators," Hayes expressed to All Gators on Sunday. "This is my dream school. I'm locked in. I'm fully committed, 100%."

Although his loyalty to the Gators has never publicly wavered, the three-day stay in Gainesville only further solidified his desire to attend the University of Florida and play for the team in college.

Hayes credited the program for making his family feel at home during the trip.

"It was a great weekend for them, getting to experience what the Florida Gators are all about," Hayes shared. "We can head back home now but they really don't want to leave, they want to stay up here."

Having pledged to the Gators in January, Hayes, the consensus No. 4 linebacker in the country, is one of the longest-tenured members of Florida's 2024 commit class and is considered an influential figure among the group.

As such, he spent his official visit weekend recruiting other prospects to join him in orange and blue at the next level, similar to fellow commitments like quarterback DJ Lagway. Fairfax (Va.) High linebacker Kristopher Jones was one of Hayes' targets, specifically.

"They were just trying to get some kids on board as far as the class of 2024," Hayes said of his and the coaching staff's recruiting efforts. "Trying to get some linebackers like Kris Jones, trying to get him committed to be a Florida Gator.

"They're still looking for opportunities and they're trying to figure out if they want to commit or not. But I told them, you know, 'This is home and just go ahead and make that decision.' "

Hayes suggested a potential return to UF for an unofficial visit during the weekend of June 16-18, in order to continue recruiting on behalf of the Gators.

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