Florida fans were treated to a pleasant surprise on Wednesday when JUCO DT Damien Jacobs signed with the Gators. Jacobs was previously committed to Tennessee and was expected by most to become a Volunteer. That expectation changed in a matter of moments with the 6'4", 300-pounder deciding the University of Florida was the best place for him.
Jacobs had intended to attend Florida State after high school, but ended up instead at East Mississippi Community College. As a JUCO defensive tackle, he became one of the better lineman in the nation. A long-time Tennessee commit, Jacobs kept his door open throughout the process as evidenced by Florida's ability to sway his decision.
The four-star DT joins fellow defensive lineman Visesio Salt as Gators' JUCO commits. With depth being an issue across the board throughout the 2011 season, expect both to be worked into the rotation immediately upon receiving their Florida uniforms.
Jacobs' commitment pushes the Gators' 2012 recruiting class to 18 members.