Gators Sign Oregon DB Transfer Trikweze Bridges

Oregon defensive back transfer Trikweze Bridges made his move from the Pacific Northwest to Gainevsille official on Wednesday by signing with the Gators.

“I am so excited to join Gator Nation and be a part of the incredible atmosphere. You are getting someone who’s ready to lead and bring the energy!”

Welcome to The Swamp, @Trikweze!#2THESW4MP pic.twitter.com/KbtfthWAro
— Florida Gators Football (@GatorsFB) December 20, 2023

A three-star prospect out of Lanett, Ala., Bridges signed with the Ducks in 2019 before spending four seasons in Eugene.

During the last two campaigns, the long-limbed cornerback produced at a high clip despite a decreasing volume from 2022 to 2023.

Over 42 appearances with the Ducks, Bridges accumulated 91 total tackles including 2.5 for loss, four interceptions, nine pass breakups and two forced fumbles. He made 17 starts within Oregon's secondary and received All-Pac-12 Third-Team honors from Pro Football Focus for his play in 2022.

He elected to transfer following the completion of the 2023 campaign, quickly earning an offer from Florida before visiting Gainesville Dec. 8-10 officially. He left thinking highly of the program and the direction of the defense if he were to join the fold.

"I see what they're trying to do with this defense, how they're trying to change it around," Bridges told All Gators on Dec. 10. "They have some pieces here, but they are young and stuff like that. And I just know that it'd be a good thing to have someone in the room with them to turn the game around and just educate them and lead them.”

The 6-foot-3, 198-pound defensive back elected to align himself with Florida on Monday. He makes that decision official with his signature on the National Letter of Intent from UF.

After primarily spending time at the cornerback spot for the Ducks, Bridges is anticipated to occupy a role at safety for the Gators in 2024. His positional versatility in the backend could also provide new secondary coach Will Harris flexibility on where to place him, namely with a potential move to the STAR nickel position if the need presents itself.

The acquisition of Bridges grew in importance when Florida lost longtime five-star safety pledge Xavier Filsaime to Texas on Monday afternoon.

He’ll likely serve a high-volume role in the Gators safety rotation next season alongside incumbent starters Jordan Castell and Bryce Thornton.

Bridges joins safety Josiah Davis and cornerback Teddy Foster as prospects signed to the Gators on Early National Signing Day.

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