There are quite a few top-level local football prospects in the Class of 2011, and that is most apparent on the defensive line where there might be three “Florida level” talents.
Leading the way is Columbia’s 6-foot-2, 265-pound tackle Timmy Jernigan, who is on the short list of prospects in contention for the No. 1 ranking in the state. Nipping at his cleats are Union County’s 6-3, 256-pound Lonnie Gosha and Gainesville’s 6-4, 250-pound Trevarris Saulsberry.
Jernigan and Gosha already have scholarship offers from the Gators, and Saulsberry no doubt will get a serious look in the spring and summer from UF’s staff. Saulsberry’s GHS teammate Kevin Nelson, a Miami commitment, told me not long ago he believes the defensive end has the size and ability to play anywhere he wants. So far, only Florida International has offered, but bowl schools like Clemson, South Florida, Rutgers, Central Florida and Arkansas have shown a great deal of interest.
I expect all three players to be on The Sun’s preseason top 50 list next Fall, and if each qualifies academically, I’m predicting Jernigan, Gosha and Saulsberry will have more offers than they can remember at one sitting.
Pity the Gainesville area’s quarterbacks.