Florida is actively pursuing several marquee players from Lakeland (Fla.) High School. Four-star offensive lineman Deyavie Hammond is the one Dreadnaught that Florida’s recruiting that has a bit of a unique back story.
When he first burst on to the scene almost two years ago Florida was in great shape for the 6-foot-4, 360-pounder. Then, after he committed and decommitted from Alabama, it appeared as though the Gators would once again be a player for his services.
However, with the coaching change in Gainesville, according to Hammond the new staff wasn't showing him any interest.
That recently changed.
A huge part of Florida's renewed interest in Hammond is due to his relationship with offensive line coach John Hevesy.
“I’ve been in touch a lot with coach Hevesy. He’s always texting me day in and day out with the little things. He’s just asking about me, my upcoming opponents, and he’s really done this since he started recruiting me. It just shows they have a lot of interest in me and I like that.”
When coaching for Mississippi State, the Bulldogs’ staff offered Hammond. Now, that coach Hevesy is only two hours away from his home, Hammond sees Florida as a real opportunity.
“I actually really like that he’s closer now because I do like looking at schools that are closer to home. I wouldn’t say just in-state schools, but he’s only two hours from where I’m at. I like coach Hevesy a lot and love talking to him.”
Florida’s struggles on the offensive line has made this position a priority on the trail and coach Hevesy likes the play of Hammond. Hammond also sees an opportunity of early playing time in Gainesville.
“He likes how I get off the ball and he needs big guys up front that can move people. He likes my work ethic and says I’ll look really nice in that orange and blue. I been looking at the lineup and I definitely feel like I can make an impact.”
Hammond isn’t the only Dreadnaught being recruited by the Gators staff. Tight end Keon Zipperer and Lloyd Summerall are two other prospects high on Florida. Hammond discusses what Zippperer and Summerall tell him about the orange and blue.
“They say it’s great up there, especially the last time they visited together. They loved it up there. They said I need to visit with them and see how it is up there. They say it’s great up there.
“I’ve been looking at two gamedays. If I don’t make it to the game they play LSU, I’ll make it to their other game against South Carolina.”
Hammond won’t be signing until the February signing period and plans on using his official visits the weeks leading up to his signing. Florida’s current 2018 class has three offensive linemen committed, but certainly would like to add several more bodies at this position.
| Service | 247 | ESPN | Rivals |
| Ranking | #206 | #106 | Four-star |