Florida lands No. 12 LB in the nation with Ja'Bois Smith's commitment

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Four-star linebacker Ja'Bois Smith committed to Florida on Friday, giving the program 12 blue-chip recruits in the 2027 class.

The 6-foot-3-inch, 200-pound Swainsboro, Georgia, native chose the Gators over his home state Georgia Bulldogs. Smith also spurned Texas A&M, South Carolina, and Texas, and, with his pick, lands in Gainesville as one of the most highly sought-after prospects of the cycle.

Smith expressed that the new coaching staff at Florida completely changed the trajectory of his recruitment. He praised new head coach Jon Sumrall's energy and vision as major factors in his decision. The Peach State prospect has long been a priority target for Brad White's defense as the top-ranked LB in Georgia.

A two-way player for Swainsboro High School, Smith tallied 72 tackles and eight tackles for loss as a junior. In nine total games, he also collected one sack and a fumble recovery as the Tigers advanced to the second round of Georgia's Class A Division 1 playoffs. On the offensive side of the ball, he totaled 457 yards and 12 touchdowns on 76 carries.

Ja'Bios Smith recruiting summary

Smith is ranked No. 171 overall and No. 12 at his position nationally according to the 247Sports composite, while the On3 industry ranking places him at No. 158 and No. 12, respectively. Smith had offers from 26 programs, including 11 other SEC schools — among them are Texas, Alabama and Georgia.

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This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: Florida gains huge commitment from No. 1 LB in the state of Georgia

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