Newly named University of Florida head coach Jim McElwain hit the ground running on the recruiting trail this week. On Sunday he began reaching out to a few of the Gators' top targets. One prominent prospect he spoke with was Seffner (Fla.) Armwood five-star defensive end Byron Cowart

"We basically just talked for a while," said Cowart. "I looked up his background and stuff and I know he knows what he is doing. He said that if I am really interested in Florida that I need to get a group of guys that all like Florida and to get things cracking and bring Florida back to where it used to be."

Though this was their first time speaking the Rivals100 prospect was impressed by the new head man in Gainesville.

"I get to meet him in person this week, but two National Championships at Bama and bringing Colorado State to 10-2, and I think even ranked. He is a little cocky and that is a good thing because that means he is confident in what he does. The best thing he said is that he knows he has talent on his team and he knows there are guys on the bench that need to be starting."

The 6-foot-3, 252-pounder was close with previous head coach Will Muschamp due in part to his defensive background as a coach. According to Cowart, McElwain told him defensively the Gators are still looking for him to come in and make an impact in the same way they always have wanted him to.

"I know from watching things that he has a swagger to him," explained Cowart. "He said things like he can win games with his dog, so that is good. On defense I told him I am interested in schools that will showcase my skills. He sees me standing up and he said the best players are going to play at their position and make plays. He asked me: 'How do you see yourself making plays?' I told him I think I am best rushing the passer and he said he agreed. I hope he keeps the defense the same."

Another factor Cowart is looking into with the Gators is whether or not current defensive line coach Brad Lawing will be retained. In the past Cowart has said that it would hurt the Gators chances if he is not kept, but Cowart knows now that if UF and Lawing do part ways, that it would be a business decision.