Transfer Scoop: Defensive back set to join Gators after offer

Simpkins is one of the most unique defensive backs in the transfer portal

Florida ahead of its third season under the direction of head coach Billy Napier is making changes to its roster to avoid a repeat of its 2023 campaign, which saw it win just five games and rank among the nation’s worst defensive teams for the second year in a row.

And while roster additions from the high school level, such as elite quarterback DJ Lagway and five-star defensive lineman LJ McCray, among others, could help the Gators move in the right direction, its their pursuits in the transfer portal that are likely to pay the biggest dividends in the short term.

It’s why transfers like former Western Kentucky safety Kendrick Simpkins are so intriguing.

A player of his versatility and efficacy, could go a long way in bolstering Florida’s roster, which was reflected in the program’s decision to offer Simpkins a scholarship on Wednesday afternoon.

Simpkins told Swamp247 on Wednesday that the interest is mutual and he intends on taking a trip to Gainesville, though one was not set as of Wednesday evening.

“I know a little about Florida,” Simpkins wrote via text. “Of course it’s the SEC and they have historically a defensive background (and are) looking to turn it around.”

Simpkins is one of the more unique defensive backs to hit the NCAA transfer portal this cycle as his versatility and success within various roles are eye-catching.

In 2023, the 6-foot defender from Montgomery, Alabama, recorded 51 total tackles, including 11.0 for a loss, 7.5 sacks, a pass defended and four forced fumbles. Simpkins led all FBS defensive backs in sacks and tied the FBS lead in fumbles forced.

His success was the byproduct of an extremely busy role in the Western Kentucky defense.

Simpkins in 2023 appeared on the field for 771 defensive snaps, 121 of which came as an edge rusher. Simpkins also played 253 snaps at free safety, which was more than at any other alignment, 235 in the box, 155 in the slot, seven at outside corner and one head-up over the center.

Florida secondary coach Will Harris, who was hired away from the Los Angeles Chargers earlier this month to replace former Florida secondary coach Corey Raymond, was the first from the Gators’ staff to engage with Simpkins, who shared that he was already somewhat familiar with Harris and his background.

The 36-year-old Florida defensive backs coach gained national notoriety for his work during a four-year stint at Washington.

“It was great,” Simpkins said of his conversation with Harris. “Seems like he’s about business and I know a little bit of his background. He’s a great coach and developer.”

Florida currently has seven safeties on its roster, seniors RJ Moten and Trikweze Bridges, sophomores Bryce Thornton and Jordan Castell, redshirt freshman Aaron Gates and true freshmen Josiah Davis and Greg Smith.

Simpkins stated his thoughts about potentially joining the group quite plainly.

“I’m highly interested in them for sure,” he said.