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Former Florida defensive back and early enrollee Chris Steele has elected to transfer to Oregon after a brief stay in Gainesville.
I now know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have everything I’ve ever wanted. I have learned the secret of being content. In any and every situation, I can do all things through GOD who gives me strength...Ready to get to Eugene and ball! #LongLiveBigBruce pic.twitter.com/QIomrC5L1w
— (@KinggChris7) May 14, 2019
Steele was part of the Gators’ 2019 recruiting class as a four star cornerback from St. John Bosco where the Ducks have several alumni on the roster.
247 Sports had him ranked as the 42nd ranked overall prospect and the fifth ranked cornerback in the 2019 class.
He committed to Florida during the Army All-American Bowl in January and early enrolled at Florida. Oregon was one of the finalists for him until his commitment.
The reason for his transfer was due to the sexual assault allegations that surfaced against former Florida QB Jalon Jones, which ultimately led to Jones transferring from the program.
According to the Gainesville Sun, Steele decided to transfer from the program due to a conflict with the Gators’ coaching staff over a request to move dorms away from Jones. Florida’s staff wanted to delay the move to the summer and clearly, that was unwise due to the allegations against their former QB.
The situation deteriorated to the point that fellow Florida players bashed him on social media for his decision to transfer in a since deleted tweet.
He will have to apply for a hardship waiver with the NCAA in order to play for the Ducks in the fall as he participated in spring camp for Florida.
Welcome to Eugene, Chris!