Gators begin push with coveted defender Zavion Hardy during weekend visit

GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA — Prior to his visit to Florida this weekend, the last time Zavion Hardy was on campus in Gainesville he was in high school. Now, he’s entering his second season at East Mississippi Community College — and appears to be a top Gators target.

“They let it be known pretty good (how wanted he is by the Gators),” Hardy said. “They just need somebody that’s going to come in and work. Somebody who’s been through it in the college world already. You know, to come in and expect it to be more of a business.”

Hardy, who is 6-foot-5, 260 pounds, is listed as a defensive lineman. But, he said the Gators picture him as an edge type. Given his size and frame, he probably could play either. Hardy originally is from Macon, Ga.

Much has changed in Gainesville since Hardy last visited Florida. For one thing, Sean Spencer no longer is defensive line coach. That role now is held by Gerald Chatman . Additionally, defensive coordinator Austin Armstrong , now entering his second season, is a new face to Hardy, too.

“Lot of new coaches,” Hardy said. “And I feel like they’re some great coaches, too. It feels like I’ve known them for a minute. I feel like this is a place you can prevail at real good. And you know, it’s always been the same great vibes. (His relationship with the coaches is) real good. I’ve been talking to them over the phone. But now that’s here in person and actually feel it and see. … They said they see me being on run defense and pass (defense).”

One thing hasn’t changed: Billy Napier as the head coach.

“He’s the same,” Hardy said. “He likes how I’ve matured a lot. I’ve grown up a lot since he last talked to me.”

Zavion Hardy is focusing on six schools

Hardy officially visited Arkansas, Mississippi State and South Carolina in June. He said Saturday that Alabama (September) and Florida (October) will get them during the season and “I think that’s going to be it.” He’s eyeing the Florida-Kentucky game for his Gators official.

According to Hardy, he has no official leader. He’s mostly focusing on the six aforementioned schools. He has no firm commitment timeframe. Where is Florida in the mix? Well, Hardy made it sound as though the Gators have a realistic chance with him.

“Yeah, sure,” Hardy said. “Just the coaches. Like I said, I’m big on personalities. Bonds. So if I can bond with a coach real good I’m going to play real good. … They’re pretty good (at Florida). I mess with them pretty good.”

The post Gators begin push with coveted defender Zavion Hardy during weekend visit appeared first on On3 .