Florida Gators safety Gregory Smith III has officially entered the transfer portal after failing to meet Thursday’s 4 p.m. deadline to sign his scholarship contract, sources confirmed. The redshirt freshman’s departure marks the first spring portal exit for the Gators’ football program.

Smith appeared in five games last season, recording five tackles and one pass breakup while preserving his redshirt status. Smith had been working as the first-team strong safety this spring while starter Bryce Thornton recovered from injury, drawing praise from teammates for his development.

“I’ve actually seen a lot of growth from Greg,” Thornton said earlier this month. “He’s out there making calls for everybody. I’m really proud of him for what he’s done and showed the maturity to be a better player.”

A former four-star recruit from Sumner High School in Riverview, Florida, Smith was ranked as the nation’s No. 18 safety in the 2024 class. The Gators initially recruited him as a developmental prospect after he played quarterback for most of his high school career, impressed by his rare combination of size and athleticism.

Florida’s staff had projected Smith as a potential long-term contributor in the secondary. General manager Jacob LaFrance previously called him “the most underrated player in Florida’s 2024 class” and praised his “huge upside” as a converted defensive back.

Smith’s departure creates additional depth concerns at safety, though the Gators return starters Thornton and Jordan Castell while adding blue-chip freshmen Lagonza Hayward and Drake Stubbs. The move also provides roster flexibility as Florida approaches the 85-man scholarship limit.

The transfer portal’s spring window remains open until April 30, giving the Gators opportunities to address the position. Smith will have four years of eligibility remaining at his next school.

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