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Top defensive end prospect has UF in top 3

Tony Medero

Florida has signed a prospect ranked in the top 10 nationally by Rivals in seven of the last eight recruiting cycles.

That trend could continue this year.

The nation’s top overall recruit, defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, grew up rooting for UF. Wide receiver Nate Craig-Myers, No. 5 in the Rivals100, attended Friday Night Lights and is considering the Gators.

Then there’s strongside defensive end Shavar Manuel.

Other recruiting sites have him in or right outside the top 10, but Rivals ranks him 20th. However, having transferred to the high-profile IMG Academy in Bradenton, his recruiting ranking will likely rise with a strong senior season.