Florida actively utilized the winter transfer portal to enhance its roster for the second consecutive offseason, bringing in a dozen experienced college football players to strengthen the team for the upcoming 2024 season. All Gators is predicting roles for each player, starting with Trikweze Bridges, a defensive back. Bridges, a sixth-year senior, transferred from Oregon to Florida on December 18, 2023, aiming to make use of his final college eligibility season with the Gators. UF prioritized him in the transfer portal, hosting him for a visit soon after the winter transfer window opened in early December. Bridges, with extensive experience, is expected to contribute to the Gators’ defense, specifically in the safety position.
Despite a decrease in playing time in 2023 compared to the previous year, Bridges accumulated significant defensive statistics during his time with the Oregon Ducks. With 1,190 defensive snaps over 17 starts and 47 appearances, he notched 93 tackles, 2.5 for loss, four interceptions, 13 defended passes, and two forced fumbles. Pro Football Focus reported a 57% completion percentage allowed in coverage (57-of-100). While most of his reps were at outside cornerback, Bridges is set to return to his original position of safety in the Gators’ secondary, where he excelled during his high school career in Alabama.
Coach Napier expressed enthusiasm about Bridges’ versatility and experience, highlighting his intelligence and leadership qualities. Bridges will join a revamped secondary, which includes three other defensive back transfers acquired since December, along with three 2024 signees. The competition for starting positions and playing time in the secondary is expected to be intense, with rising sophomore Jordan Castell likely securing one of the starting safety spots. The remaining players, including Bridges, will vie for the other safety position and playing time at STAR nickel corner. The coaching staff is known for creating rotations at positions of strength, and the versatility of the players makes them all potential contributors in various situations.
Bridges, known for his coverage skills and past success as a ball-hawking safety, could be a valuable asset in improving Florida’s interception numbers, which were the worst in the SEC in the previous season. As he aims to reclaim a starting role in his final college football season, his ability to adapt to the safety position will play a crucial role in his success.
