Five former Gators sign as free agents with NFL teams
Florida had just three players selected in the NFL Draft, held last week in Las Vegas, marking the fewest draft picks in the program in a decade.
But Kaiir Elam (Buffalo Bills), Zachary Carter (Cincinnati Bengals) and Dameon Pierce (Houston Texans) aren’t the only former Gators who have a chance to see the field in 2022 as National Football League rookies.
As of the seventh round, five Gators from the 2021 team have signed as undrafted free agents.
First round:Former Florida cornerback Kaiir Elam drafted 23rd overall by Buffalo Bills
Day 2:Florida DT Zachary Carter heads to Cincinnati Bengals as 95th pick in 2022 NFL Draft
Latest GatorSports Podcast:Gators in the NFL Draft and more Florida sports
Jeremiah Moon
Outside linebacker Jeremiah Moon was expected to hear his name called in the sixth or seventh round, but he was ultimately not drafted.
Moon, who suffered three season-ending injuries during his six-year career with the Gators, signed with the Baltimore Ravens as a free agent.
Malik Davis
Running back Malik Davis follows Pierce to the Lone Star State, after signing a free agent contract with the Dallas Cowboys.
Davis was Florida’s starting running back for 12 of 13 games last season, rushing 92 times for 487 yards and five touchdowns. He also had 23 receptions for 217 yards and a pair of receiving touchdowns.
Professional day:NFL potential on display as former players take part in Florida Gators Pro Day
Tyrone Truesdell and Antonio Valentino
Prior to last season, defensive tackles Tyrone Truesdell (Auburn) and Antonio Valentino (Penn State) arrived at UF through the NCAA transfer portal.
After ending their college careers in Gainesville, the duo will now begin professional careers at the same location.
Truesdell and Valentino head to the Meadowlands, signing with the New York Giants.
John Delance
Rounding out UF’s list of undrafted free agent signers is another transfer: offensive lineman Jean Delance.
A three-year starter for the Gators after his transfer from Texas, Delance was an interesting prospect in the draft, with several teams impressed with his athleticism and pass protection prowess.
Professional day:After six seasons at the college level, Jean Delance is looking to prove his worth to NFL teams
But Delance’s film left something to be desired, and he struggled in the running game during his UF career.
Nonetheless, the Chicago Bears remained intrigued and signed Delance to a free agent deal within 24 hours of the draft’s conclusion.