On Tuesday, the Florida Gators returned to the practice field for spring practice, and many prospects were invited to campus to witness.
Tristan Lyles (6-1, 220, Phenix City, AL. Central), a 2026 defensive end/outside linebacker, was among those on campus on Tuesday and had the opportunity to meet the coaching staff for the first time.
“The visit was great,” Lyles remarked about his trip to Florida on Tuesday. “I had a tour of the facility and stadium. It was a fantastic mood; I was delighted to visit the coaches and meet coach [Billy] Napier for the first time.”
Lyles observed the Gators’ defence attentively throughout spring practice, and he appreciated how Mike Peterson coached his position.
“It was intense for the first day back from spring break, but they got after it,” he said of Florida’s practice. “I observed [Coach Mike P], and I appreciate how he connects with his players and how they relate to him. The defence, I like how the jacks play and cover in space.”
After practice, Peterson discussed with Lyles how he may fit into the defence and what is expected of the position.
“He was talking about me getting better, learning every day, soaking up everything, and enjoying the process,” Lyles explained of Peterson’s message. “He loves my tape and wants me at the Jack but you know I feel like the way he talks to his players that he wants all of them to be versatile.”
After visiting Gainesville on Tuesday, Lyles says the Gators are a team he really likes for a variety of reasons.
“Very high, I really like the way the program is trending right now to be one of the top teams in the country,” he added of his interest in Florida. “I really like the environment down here; it’s really family oriented. I admire the program’s history and the guys who have come through here.”
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