Gators News: What Gator fans should watch for NFL Draft

Florida Football fans are anxiously eyeing Day 3 of the NFL Draft as the team strives to avoid a distinction it hasn’t faced since 1980. Day 2 saw little action for the Gators after the excitement of Ricky Pearsall’s first-round selection, leaving fans eager for developments on the final day of the draft, starting at 12 PM.

Here are three key storylines Gator fans should keep an eye on:

1. Kingsley Eguakun’s Draft Prospects: Center Kingsley Eguakun remains the only other Gator hopeful for the 2024 draft, albeit with modest expectations following an injury-riddled season. Viewed as a potential 6th or 7th round pick, Eguakun’s draft fate will significantly impact Florida’s overall draft tally. Should he be drafted, it would mark the fewest selections for the Gators since 2012. Conversely, if Eguakun remains undrafted and Pearsall stands as the sole pick, it would mark the first time since 1980 that only one Florida player was drafted.
2. Miami Hurricanes’ Draft Outcome: The Miami Hurricanes entered the 2023 season with high expectations, potentially yielding numerous early-round draft picks. However, such projections failed to materialize, leaving the Hurricanes with minimal draft representation thus far. The last-minute selection of Kamren Kinchens in the third round salvaged Miami from entering Day 3 without a pick. This outcome raises questions about the state of the program under Mario Cristobal’s leadership and its ability to produce NFL talent.
3. Potential Undrafted Free Agents: Reflecting the challenges faced by Florida Football in 2023, the pool of potential undrafted free agents is not extensive. Alongside the draft prospects, players like Lyndell Hudson, Micah Leon, Eddie Battle, Jacob Watkins, and Griffin McDowell showcased their skills at Florida’s Pro Day. Of these, Hudson stands out as a possible candidate for an NFL training camp spot, having transferred from FIU and gained playing experience during the 2023 season.

As Day 3 unfolds, Gator fans eagerly await the outcomes of these pivotal storylines, hoping for positive developments amidst the uncertainty.