Emerging DL Derry Norris feeling ‘nothing but love’ from Florida

Three programs make up the official visit schedule for Port Orange (Fla.) Spruce Creek defensive lineman Derry Norris. The Florida Gators, however, are not one of them.

Georgia Tech is at the top of the itinerary for May 31, while Miami and Minnesota are on the calendar for June 7 and June 14, respectively. That puts the Gators in a difficult spot, especially after Norris had to cancel his unofficial visit for earlier this week.

“We are trying to get another date right now. No specific dates, but we are just talking about everything that’s going on. Possibly in the summer for a midweek (official visit),” Norris told Gators Online.

Tasked with recruiting Norris on behalf of Florida are defensive line coach Gerald Chatman and assistant defensive line coach Luis Mcleod. Chatman is who offered in late March and dropped by Spruce Creek during the spring. Those relationships at the Swamp are strong and only getting better.

“The relationship is pretty tight. We have a great bond, and that’s even talking about personal things. Everything is good,” said Norris. “It’s like a personal connection for sure. It seems like we’ve known each other from day one, so everything is good.”

Derry Norris has taken multiple trips to Florida

When Norris returns to Gainesville, it will mark his third visit with the Florida Gators.

The 3-star prospect was in attendance for last season’s victory against Charlotte and then returned to campus earlier this year for a junior day. That has provided him with plenty to evaluate.

“I really like the atmosphere,” said Norris. “It’s a great atmosphere to play in, like, the history and special routines they have.”

A commitment timeline is in place

In a perfect world, Norris would like to be committed somewhere by the time his senior season starts. That makes securing an official visit that much more important for Billy Napier and company.

For now though, Miami holds the slight advantage in the On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine.

“They definitely sit on the list. I feel nothing but love from Florida, so I want to continue keeping this thing rolling.” Norris said when asked about front runners. “All the schools like UF are really, really up there. It makes my life a lot harder, so I just take it day by day.”

During his junior season, Norris accumulated 63 tackles (36 solo), 12.5 tackles for loss, seven sacks and one pass deflection. He is currently the 41st-ranked defensive lineman in the On3 Industry Ranking.

Stay tuned to Gators Online.

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