Florida’s blue-chip LB commit flips to Miami Hurricanes

Florida football received more bad news on Wednesday afternoon during the opening day of the early signing period rush. Along with the delay in five-star defensive lineman LJ McCray’s official commitment and Amaris Williams’ flip to the Auburn Tigers, the Gators were dealt a major blow with the flip of another blue-chip recruit.

Four-star linebacker Adarius Hayes out of Largo (Florida) made a last-minute decision to choose the Miami Hurricanes despite the long courtship between him and UF.

He was originally offered as a freshman during Dan Mullen’s tenure, and inside linebackers coach Jay Bateman continued where his predecessor left off. The 6-foot-3-inch, 210-pound Sunshine State product grew up a Gators fan and was seemingly amped to join the Orange and Blue.

However, the Hurricanes were persistent, and there were times it appeared his commitment to Florida might be wavering. His official visit to Coral Gables this month likely was what turned the tables on Billy Napier and Co. in the end.

Hayes is ranked No. 73 overall and No. 7 at his position nationally according to the 247Sports composite. The On3 industry ranking has him at Nos. 80 and 7, respectively.