Four-star RB eager to meet with Florida Gators: ‘They sit very highly’

It has been a month to remember for DeSoto (Texas) four-star running back, Deondrae Riden, as a flurry of Power Five programs have came calling with offers. It’s worth noting that Ohio State joined the fray in late April as well, so his stock is soaring right now.

Riden’s most recent offer was delivered last Tuesday, and it was from the University of Florida. Billy Napier’s staff dropped by his school for the spring evaluation period, and after recently huddling back up in Gainesville, they simply found no reason to wait any longer, resulting in the verbal offer.

In addition to the Gators and Buckeyes, the 2025 prospect possesses offers from Alabama, Georgia, Texas, Texas A&M, Oregon, Oklahoma, USC, Tennessee and Michigan among others.

“Coach Juluke came by the school like two weeks ago. I spoke with him after that. And then about four days ago, I spoke with the assistant running backs coach,” Riden told Gators Online.

“He was saying they love my game and things like that. He wants me to come down there. Then about an hour later, he said to give him a call back and they offered me. I can’t wait to build this relationship and keep things rolling.”

While a visit is not scheduled, Riden plans to look over some potential dates in the coming days. Florida is a school he is extremely excited about visiting for the first time.

Those 1-2 days in Gainesville should answer any questions he has about the program and provide him with plenty of information about life as a student athlete; however, it’s safe to say UF is a school Riden is not completely unfamiliar with either.

“I like how they run their offense and have a very decent running game. They also can put up points and constantly win games,” Riden said. “Things I know about the Gators is that they have won three national championships over the last 20 years and also developed plenty of players.”

Lone Star State programs are trending up for Riden

According to On3’s Recruiting Prediction Machine, SMU is trending with odds of 32.8 percent. Texas A&M is not far behind the Mustangs with a percentage of 28.7. TCU and Texas, respectively, check in with the third and fourth-best odds, so there is a good chance Riden stays put in his home state.

With that said, where do the Gators sit on his list following last week’s scholarship offer?

“They sit very highly. I can’t wait to visit,” Riden replied.

During the 2022 season, the 5-foot-10, 195-pound sophomore accumulated 1,339 yards and 18 touchdowns on the ground, averaging 6.9 yards per carry. He was responsible for 100-plus yards receiving as well.

Stay tuned to Gators Online.

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