The appeal of playing in the SEC and the prospect of becoming the primary receiving option led two former Pac-12 schools to be disregarded in favor of the Gators. After listing Arizona, Washington, and Florida as his top three choices, a former ASU wide receiver revealed on May 17th that he would be joining Billy Napier’s team in Gainesville, according to Hayes Fawcett of On3.
Regardless of his destination, he would have played a crucial role in the passing game, with two schools offering him the chance to be the main target. However, the attraction of the SEC’s bright spotlight proved irresistible.
Why did the other schools miss out? At Arizona, the top wide receiver position was already occupied by Tetairoa McMillan, leaving no opportunity for him to claim it. Despite having his former position coach Bobby Wade on staff, Arizona couldn’t guarantee him a prominent role.
As for Washington, the team’s roster is struggling. Despite the chance to catch passes from former SEC quarterback Will Rogers, there’s uncertainty about the Huskies’ performance, especially after their success under Kalen DeBoer last year.
Florida, like other SEC powerhouses such as Alabama, LSU, and Ole Miss, boasts significant financial resources. Historically, these schools have employed strategies, whether official or unofficial, to compensate players, which likely influenced the decision.
Badger brings three years of playing experience and three more years of eligibility to Florida. He is expected to be a key player for the Gators, especially alongside transfer quarterback Graham Mertz. Badger’s journey began in 2021 as a redshirt freshman, with limited action. In 2022, he emerged as ASU’s primary target, continuing that role into 2023 as a redshirt junior. With the additional COVID-19 redshirt year and his true junior and senior seasons ahead, he has ample time to showcase his talent and enhance his NFL prospects in the competitive environment of the SEC.
