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Florida's defensive line haul in the recruiting class of 2012 was quite impressive. Jonathan Bullard, a strong-side defensive end was rated fifth nationally among ends and tackles. Dante Fowler, of St. Petersburg, came in at 12th. Dante Phillips, of Venice (Fla.) checked in at 30th. That's two five-stars and a four-star, if you're scoring at home. Few teams signed a better crop of defensive line recruits in 2012.
But they are only valuable to Florida if they get on campus. And so far, that hasn't happened. For any of the trio.
Three of #Florida's 2012 signees – DT Dante Phillips, DE Jonathan Bullard & DE/LB Dante Fowler – have yet to report to #UF due to academics.
— Zach Abolverdi (@ZachAbolverdi) June 29, 2012
The future of Bullard seems the most certain because he has actually completed the required coursework.
Source tells me Bullard completed his academic requirements & qualified for #UF but couldn't report because his paperwork was turned in late
— Zach Abolverdi (@ZachAbolverdi) June 29, 2012
Fowler's father has indicated that he would report this coming Monday, but other sources are taking a "believe it when they see it" stance.
Dante Fowler Sr. said tonight his son will report to #UF Monday, when Summer B starts. The status of Bullard & Phillips is still unknown.
— Zach Abolverdi (@ZachAbolverdi) June 29, 2012
Per @InsidetheGators, 5-star Dante Fowler will not report to UF until end of week at earliest. Must 1st finish, pass an online class #Gators
— OnlyGators.com (@onlygators) June 26, 2012
Phillips seems to be the true mystery here, as no Florida outlet has reported anything of note on his status.
Things like this typically work out, but this situation bears watching as at least two of the three are expected to play significant snaps for Florida as freshmen.
For more on Gators football, visit Florida blog Alligator Army, plus SEC blog Team Speed Kills and SB Nation Tampa Bay.