Five-Star 295-Pound Offensive Guard Ty Lockwood Flips Commitment to Florida Gators After Rejecting Tennessee, Bulldogs…
Five-Star 295-Pound Offensive Guard Ty Lockwood Flips Commitment to Florida Gators After Rejecting Tennessee, Bulldogs
Ty Lockwood had spent months as one of the most sought-after offensive linemen in the country. At 6-foot-5 and 295 pounds, the five-star guard from Georgia had his pick of powerhouse programs. Early on, it seemed like a two-horse race between Tennessee and Georgia. Lockwood had visited Knoxville multiple times, even sporting orange and white gear in Instagram posts. Georgia, meanwhile, pitched him on being the next great Bulldog lineman, a hometown hero who would pave the way for championships.
But everything changed when he took an official visit to Gainesville.
The Florida Gators, late to the race, pulled out all the stops. Head coach Billy Napier made it clear—Lockwood wasn’t just another recruit. He was the missing piece to their future offensive line dominance. He met with Florida’s strength staff, studied the offensive scheme, and even had dinner with former Gator greats who convinced him he could be a legend in The Swamp.
Then came the toughest part—turning down Tennessee and Georgia.
Tennessee’s coaching staff was stunned. They had built a strong relationship with him, believing his commitment was imminent. Georgia’s head coach, usually unshaken, personally called Lockwood to make one final push, reminding him of the Bulldogs’ recent national titles. But Lockwood had made up his mind.
“I had to follow my heart,” he said in his announcement. “Florida felt like home. I believe in what Coach Napier is building, and I want to be part of something special.”
The decision sent shockwaves through the recruiting world. Florida fans erupted in celebration on social media, while Tennessee and Georgia fans fumed. Some called him a traitor. Others speculated about NIL deals. But Lockwood ignored the noise.
As he put on the blue and orange cap and signed his letter of intent, he grinned.
“I’m a Gator now,” he said. “And I
’m ready to win.”