re: 2024 Recruiting Class

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The Florida Gators had one of their top targets in the defensive secondary on campus for the second time this year on Tuesday. Daytona Beach (Fla.) Mainland Top100 defensive back Zavier Mincey was back in the Swamp to check out the University of Florida again. He last was in town back in January for a Junior Day, and was able to see much of the campus. However, there were some sights that were left unseen due to his time to meet with coaches running in between parts of his tour on January's visit.

This time around, he got to see some of those amenities around campus that are available for student athletes.

"It was good," Mincey said. "Last time I was there, I didn't get to see things like the Hawkins Center, so I got to see it this time. I got to see the dorms for the freshmen this time. They were all dope. Everything they have that I saw today is like futuristic. It's all new and really cool. Just seeing all the technology and resources they have there."

One highlight for the 6-foot-3, 190-pounder was getting to see the Gators hit the field to take part in their first scrimmage of spring camp. He shadowed secondary coach Corey Raymond during his time observing, and also kept close watch on the defensive back group.

"I watched some of it and got to hang out with Coach Raymond while they were doing the scrimmage. I got to see some of the drills. It was cool watching. Even before they started scrimmaging they started off with hitting drills just to get the energy and to fire everyone up. It was cool seeing them feed everyone and having guys making plays. It was good to see. I saw some guys Jah [Jakeem Jackson] getting some pass breakups. I watched No. 3 too, he looked really good."

Coach Raymond has been running point for the Gators on the trail for Mincey. The two have a close bond that has been formed, and while Raymond is usually very laid back, Mincey got to see him a bit more fired up in a game-like setting.

"I got to see the teaching side from him, like telling guys what they did wrong and what they did right, or even what they could have done better. I also got to see the stern, yelling side. I got to see both sides of him in action, which was good to see. They use the position exactly like where I am at right now. They do split coverages, where they have like three on one side and two on the other. They run quarters, man, cover 3. Basically all the stuff Io am doing right now."

Before the Gators took to the field, Mincey got to hang out in the offices with Raymond. The Gator assistant has long told Mincey he is a priority target this cycle, and continues to let it be known whenever they meet.

"They were just telling me pretty much they want me, and that I am one of their top guys. Coach Raymond was telling me you can go to a lot of places, but if you want to get developed by the best, then Florida can do that."

Mincey has now visited both Florida and Forfeit State University this spring. He is planning to fit more trips into his schedule going forward as the spring months continue.

"I think I am supposed to go to Miami on the 8th, but I just have to check and make sure I don't have a track meet and if I can make it. Supposed to be at Alabama I am pretty sure. Alabama, Tennessee, LSU. There are a few places I want to see."

Mincey has long noted Florida as one of his top schools, and that remains the case after getting back yet again.

"They are definitely one of the top ones for me," he said of the Gators. "I have been there a bunch of times, and everyone is always nice and welcoming. It's just a good vibe around everyone."

The Gators do not have an official visit set up with Mincey for the future. That's because he doesn't have any set at this time. There were discussion between Mincey and the Gators staff on how he plans to split up his trips over the course of the year.

"They mostly were asking me if I had set up most of my visits yet. I told them no, but I know when I want to do them. Two in the summer, one on our BYE week, and then two after the season. I am not trying to make a decision any time soon. I was thinking like right after my season ends when I take those last two visits. Probably closer to December. At least I am thinking right now."

Mincey has not named any official leaderboard in his recruitment at this point. It's been tough for him to do that because he's been fielding offer after offer these last few months. Some of the programs who have offered, he's not visited before either. He doesn't envision himself making a decision until much later in the process, but knows two programs that will likely stick with him throughout his recruitment.

"Definitely Florida and Florida State. I definitely talk to them the most. They have shown they want what is best for me. I have visited both of them the most."

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