UAB cancelled its football program earlier this month and the Florida Gators are hoping to land one of their former players.

Sophomore receiver Jamari Staples (6-4, 190) is planning to visit Florida soon as two of the Gators football coaches have reached out to the receiver.

“I’m planning on visiting Florida for an official visit one day next week,” Staples said. “I’ve talked to Coach [Mike] Summers and to Coach [Jim] McElwain about Florida and about them wanting me to visit.”

Staples, who is from the state of Alabama, had the chance to watch McElwain at Alabama and he’s eager to learn more about the Gators new offense.

“Coach McElwain was telling me that he was interested in me and that he wanted me to come down for a visit,” Staples said. “He said that he wanted me to come down and see what Florida has to offer and to sit down with him to talk about his offense. I’ve heard some good things about his offense so I’m looking forward to talking to him.”

Offensive line coach Mike Summers was the first to reach out to Staples last week and the two parties had a good conversation as Staples learned how much he was needed at Florida.

“Coach Summers said that they were lacking at the receiver position and that Florida was looking to get some more players in at the position,” Staples said. “He said that they need a big receiver like me that can come in and play from day one. Coach Summers said that I fit that mold perfectly.”

One thing that is good for Staples is that he can play from day one and he will be in school in the coming weeks.

“I have three years to play two seasons,” Staples said. “I’m going to start school in January so that I can go through spring practice and everything with my new team.”

Florida will get its chance to persuade Staples to join the Gators football team but right now another SEC school is the favorite.

“Auburn is kind of the favorite but they haven’t offered yet,” Staples said. “I’m just looking at Florida, Auburn and Louisville right now so those are my top 3.”

INSIDERS TAKE: Landing Staples would be huge for Florida because he has experience at the Division I level and he can play next season. Staples would be the perfect combination with Robinson as both are big play receivers.