Florida’s standing in Vero Beach (Fla.) High linebacker Tarvos “TJ” Alford ‘s recruitment was solidified Friday evening, as his college commitment nears.
Alford named the Gators among his top six schools and scheduled his pledge date for March 30, via social media. Ohio State, Florida State, Tennessee, Miami and UCF join Florida in Alford’s group of contending programs.
Alford is regarded as the No. 10 linebacker and No. 70 overall prospect in the class of 2025 by the 247Sports composite rankings.
A hybrid inside linebacker/box safety with elite closing speed for a player at the high school level, the 6-foot-2, 210-pound Alford recorded 114 tackles with 12 for loss, four sacks, one interception and six defended passes for Vero Beach in 2023.
He compiled 166 tackles with 10 for loss and six sacks between 2021-22 at Fort Pierce (Fla.) John Carroll.
Florida has long desired Alford’s services. It was the fourth program to extend him a scholarship offer, in June 2022, and has hosted him for at least eight unofficial campus visits during his recruitment.