Billy Napier's Florida Gators attempt to recruit Arizona Wildcats QB commit Robert McDaniel

By Aman Sharma

Modified Oct 26, 2024 09:21 GMT

In a strategic recruiting move, coach Billy Napier's Florida Gators have made a late push to sway 2025 quarterback Robert McDaniel away from his commitment to the Arizona Wildcats. Florida's outreach signals its intent to strengthen its quarterback depth, enhancing its long-term competitiveness within the Southeastern Conference.

McDaniel, a talent from Hughson, California, has already stirred interest across college football. Originally committing to California, he later switched to Arizona in May, highlighting his strong connection with the coaching staff there.

"I felt a great connection overall with the staff and the bond of the players," he said, via 247Sports. "The chemistry in the quarterback room was elite and the way those guys have each others back makes you want to join that team."

His rapport with head coach Dino Babers and quarterback coach Lyle Moevao further influenced his decision.

"I got on the phone with coach (Dino) Babers and coach (Brent) Brennan and the response I got matched the excitement I had and I'm looking forward to getting to work," he said.

"The coaches played a huge role. I've known a majority of this coaching staff since their days at San Jose State. Getting to interact with coach Babers and coach Lyle (Moevao) in the quarterback room instilled a lot of confidence in my decision to make a change."

Ranked as the nation’s No. 33 quarterback in the On3 Industry Rankings, McDaniel’s profile aligns with Florida’s recruiting ambitions. Florida’s 2025 class sits at No. 33 nationally and 15th in the SEC, with 11 committed prospects, including four ESPN300 players: Vernell Brown III (WR), Jalen Wiggins (DL), Waltez Clark (RB) and Josh Moore (WR).

Elite 11 finalist Robert McDaniel draws interest from Florida Gators

Quarterback Robert McDaniel, committed to Arizona for the 2025 class, captured Gator's attention after competing in the Elite 11 finals. On3’s Director of Scouting Charles Power ranked McDaniel No. 10 after his performance, saying:

“Robert McDaniel was a late invite to the Elite 11 following an injury to Tennessee commit George MacIntyre. The prospect from central California made the most of the opportunity. McDaniel flashed a quick, pliable arm and was able to to stick throws on receivers and generate good velocity.”

McDaniel stepped in as a late addition to the camp following an injury to Tennessee commit George MacIntyre, throwing four touchdowns in a 7-on-7 game and excelling in the pro day segment.

"McDaniel was particularly good on the final two days. He had a strong pro day on Wednesday night and backed that up by throwing for four touchdowns during 7-on-7 on Thursday," Power said.

Although McDaniel’s interest in Florida is unclear, the Gators’ offer suggests mutual interest. Coach Billy Napier and quarterbacks analyst Ryan O’Hara, a former Arizona player, follow McDaniel on social media.

The Gators actively seek a quarterback for their 2025 roster after missing out on several prospects, even as they successfully signed five-star DJ Lagway in the 2024 cycle.

McDaniel’s senior season has been strong, boasting 112 completions out of 173 attempts for 1,898 yards, 26 touchdowns and only one interception—a record that underlines his potential to contribute at a high level in the SEC.