UF defensive tackle T.J. Slaton does not often sneak up on anyone.
When the 6-foot-4, 344-pound sophomore hits the basketball court, though, people are not quite sure what to make of him — until the game begins. Soon, Slaton’s surprising agility, explosiveness and athletic ability are hard to miss.
“Then they're like, 'Oh, we want to pick him.’” Slaton said.
The Gators are glad he’s on their team.
Slaton’s rare combination of physical tools translate even better to the football field, where the 20-year-old Fort Lauderdale native has the talent to become a dominant force in the middle of UF’s defense.