Cormani McClain: Florida’s Newest Transfer Target

The Gator Nation is likely familiar with Cormani McClain, a talented cornerback who has entered the transfer portal after spending one season with Colorado. McClain was the top-ranked cornerback and 14th overall player in the 2023 recruiting class, and he currently ranks as the 21st overall transfer in 2024.

McClain and Florida have a history that dates back to his high school recruitment. On October 27th, 2022, the Lakeland High School product shocked the college football world by committing to the Miami Hurricanes over Florida. However, he ultimately signed with Deion Sanders and the Buffaloes.

The 6’2″, 165-pound cornerback visited Gainesville a total of six times throughout his high school recruitment, indicating a clear interest from both parties. In April 2022, following one of his visits, McClain expressed his affection for the university, stating, “Florida is just home. It’s just a place, it’s just home. You have to have love for Florida.”

Now, McClain is back on campus once again, this time as a transfer portal target for the Gators. With his impressive credentials and previous interest in the program, his potential addition to the team could be a significant boost for Florida’s secondary.

McClain, as a true freshman, played in nine games on defense, with four starts. During this time, he tallied 13 total tackles, including six unassisted tackles, one tackle for loss, and two pass breakups.

His defensive grade of 51.7 placed him 36th among Colorado’s defensive players, as per Pro Football Focus. McClain struggled with missed tackles, recording a missed tackle percentage of 37.5%, the highest among Colorado’s defenders with 25 or more snaps. In coverage, he allowed 18 receptions for 380 yards on 25 targets over 277 snaps, resulting in a yards allowed per catch of 21.1, the highest on the Buffaloes.

What is the reason for his transfer.

McClain’s decision to transfer from Colorado may stem from challenges he faced off the field during his time at the collegiate level.

Deion Sanders, Colorado’s coach, highlighted issues such as preparation, punctuality, and commitment to the game as factors affecting McClain’s playing time. Sanders emphasized the importance of dedication, understanding the team’s scheme, and being proactive in one’s development both on and off the field.

Following McClain’s entry into the transfer portal, Sanders expressed his hopes for McClain to find a program that would challenge him, hold him accountable, and aid in his personal growth. Sanders acknowledged that Colorado was unable to provide the necessary environment for McClain’s development.

In a video addressing his departure from Colorado, McClain expressed his desire to join a program focused on player development rather than superficial motives. Florida has extended an offer to McClain as a preferred walk-on for the 2024 season, a move that carries minimal risk for the Gators but offers significant potential rewards. If McClain chooses to transfer to Florida, he would enhance a cornerback group that includes talented players like Jason Marshall, Devin Moore, Ja’Keem Jackson, Jameer Grimsley, Teddy Foster, and Dijon Johnson.