Deshawn Purdie Joins Florida Gators: Bolstering Quarterback Depth for 2025

Baltimore, Maryland — The Florida Gators have bolstered their quarterback depth for the 2025 season with the addition of former Charlotte quarterback Deshawn Purdie via the NCAA Transfer Portal. Purdie announced his commitment on Sunday. The news was first reported by 247 Sports’ Matt Zenitz, who indicated Florida was the frontrunner for Purdie. The Gators also pursued former UCLA quarterback Justyn Martin, who has since committed to Maryland.

Deshawn Purdie: From Baltimore to Gainesville

Deshawn Purdie, a talented quarterback from Baltimore, Maryland, has made significant strides in his football career, transitioning from high school standout to collegiate athlete. Purdie attended Milford Mill Academy, where he showcased his skills as a quarterback. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 215 pounds, he was known for his strong arm and athleticism. He passed for 1,787 yards during his senior year, ranking 17th in Maryland.

Commitment to Charlotte University

After a successful high school career, Purdie committed to the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, joining the 49ers’ 2024 recruiting class. As a freshman, Purdie appeared in several games, throwing for 1,802 passing yards, ten touchdowns, and six interceptions while splitting time as the starter. Throughout his development, Purdie benefited from the mentorship of experienced coaches, including Biff Poggi, a renowned figure in Baltimore’s football scene and former head coach at St. Frances Academy. Poggi’s guidance helped shape Purdie’s approach to the game.

Transfer to the University of Florida

On December 10, 2024, Purdie entered the transfer portal, seeking more significant opportunities. Shortly thereafter, he committed to the University of Florida, where he aims to compete for a pivotal role in the Gators’ quarterback room and provide critical depth behind DJ Lagway in 2025. Purdie joins a bolstered quarterback roster, including four-star recruit Tramell Jones Jr. in the 2025 signing class. This solidifies the Gators’ depth after struggles in 2024 exposed the team’s vulnerabilities at the position. Despite having one of the SEC’s most experienced quarterbacks in Graham Mertz and five-star freshman Lagway, injuries to both players left Florida scrambling. A concussion and torn ACL ended Mertz’s senior season, while a hamstring strain sidelined Lagway during key games. Walk-on Yale transfer Aidan Warner, pressed into action, struggled during his appearances, further emphasizing the need for reinforcements.

A Promising Future

With Purdie and Jones Jr. in the fold, Florida has addressed its quarterback depth concerns, setting up a more stable foundation heading into the 2025 season. Purdie is the third transfer portal addition for Florida this offseason, joining former Michigan punter Tommy Doman and former UCLA wide receiver J. Michael Sturdivant.