When Florida Football pursued Cormani McClain in the transfer portal, it was clear the Gators were taking a calculated risk. Despite being a five-star prospect from Lakeland in the class of 2023, McClain had a disappointing freshman year with Deion Sanders and his team.
Earlier this week, rumors surfaced about McClain facing difficulties behind the scenes in Gainesville. A social media rumor even suggested he had been kicked off the team, but Florida DB coach Will Harris seems to have dismissed this notion.
**Florida Football: Checkmate**
McClain’s journey has been tumultuous. Initially leaning towards the Gators, he committed to Miami before switching to Colorado on signing day. His freshman season was underwhelming, with Pro Football Focus ranking him among the lowest-rated DBs in 2023. After entering the transfer portal in the spring, Billy Napier and his team decided to bring McClain on as a walk-on for the 2024 season.
Everyone knew McClain’s commitment to Florida would be a project. According to a report from Nick de la Torre of On3, McClain was struggling with punctuality and other behind-the-scenes issues. This week, an X account dedicated to Polk County football speculated that McClain had been removed from the team at Florida.
Just received word that Cormani McClain has been removed from the University of Florida football team… WOW. @ChadSimmons_ @adamgorney @Andrew_Ivins
— PolkWay (@polk_way) July 16, 2024
With over 1,000 likes, Will Harris responded on X, cryptically indicating that McClain was still with the Florida Gators. Zach Abolverdi, also of On3, confirmed that McClain remained on the team.
Not true!!!
— Will Harris (@CoachWillHarris) July 16, 2024
Where there is smoke, there tends to be fire. It’s not far-fetched to think McClain has had challenges since arriving in Gainesville. However, before criticizing Napier, it’s crucial to remember that McClain was always a low-risk investment for the Gators. If it doesn’t work out, he is just a walk-on, and life goes on. If he succeeds, the Gators essentially get him for free.
We’ll see how his saga unfolds and if any further issues arise, but for now, indications are that his journey with the team continues.
