Safety Gregory Smith III Chooses Gators, Signs With Florida

Transitioning to the defensive side of the football — while maintaining his quarterback duties — during his senior season, Smith was a late riser in the 2024 cycle. He made his way on the radar of several Power Five programs just over midway through his final year at the prep level en route to accounting for 29 tackles, one for loss, four pass breakups, one interception and a fumble in 11 appearances in his final campaign with the Stingrays.

Showcasing impressive athleticism and ball skills at 6-foot-4, 200 pounds, Smith fits the mold of rangy backend prospects the Gators have coveted under the current coaching regime.

As a result, he became a clear target for Florida in early October when the Sumner High standout earned his official scholarship offer from the University. The Gators immediately jumped to the top of his recruitment despite the influx of interest he was receiving. 

UF accordingly aligned as the favorite to land his services at that stage. 

Despite the clear mutual interest, Smith elected to do his due diligence when attempting to pinpoint his future school. He entertained a quintet of other potential suitors, including Ole Miss, Toledo, Vanderbilt, Virginia and USF, the other members of his top six. 

Florida's dismissal of secondary coach Corey Raymond on Nov. 29 opened the door for the other prospective programs to persuade Smith away from Gainesville. It resulted in Smith pushing back his pledge from Dec. 13 to Early National Signing Day on Wednesday. 

However, the Gators' defensive backs coach replacement, Harris, worked to forge a firm rapport with the high-upside in-state safety upon his move to the Sunshine State. Harris' steadfast efforts in the closing days of the 2024 cycle paid dividends for the Gators, ultimately landing Smith's commitment. 

He joins fellow safety signee Josiah Davis and cornerback signee Teddy Foster in UF's 2024 defensive back haul. 

Smith and Davis align within a young group of safety contributors returning from the 2023 roster, including the Week 13 starting tandem Jordan Castell and Bryce Thornton. Oregon transfer Trikweze Bridges is also expected to occupy a spot at safety following his Monday pledge to the Gators.