Former LSU tight end Arik Gilbert announced on social media on Sunday that he is moving to Florida.
Gilbert was the sixth candidate in the 2020 class in Marietta, Georgia, and initially entered the transfer portal on January 5.
He was fourth in yard reception for LSU last season, with 368 yards and two touchdowns in 35 receptions in eight games. Gilbert abruptly gave up on the season on December 9, and coach Ed Orgeron said at the time that he expected Gilbert to return in 2021.
Gilbert will give the Gators another excellent option for capturing passes in the tight end. Kyle Pitts, who is entering the NFL draft, was the team’s second in receiving yards this season, with 770 yards and 12 touchdowns.
Florida increased its list to 2021 through the transfer portal with Gilbert, as well as running back Demarkcus Bowman, who transferred from Clemson and was ranked 23rd in the 2020 class.
The team also added defensive tackle DaQuan Newkirk from Auburn and Antonio Shelton from Penn State to the Florida squad.