Defensive End Jonathan Greenard is set to transfer to the University of Florida after graduating from Louisville in December. Dave Lackford of rivals.com was the first to report on the transfer.
Louisville’s top pass rusher is planning to transfer to Florida after graduating in December. https://t.co/yUsQBTq3Yr
— Dave Lackford🍿 (@RivalsDave) December 2, 2018
Greenard missed his redshirt junior season with a wrist injury that he suffered in the first game of the season.
He was primed for a breakout season after leading the team in both, tackles for loss and sacks in his sophomore campaign. In just five starts, Greenard tallied 15.5 TFL and 7 sacks.
Greenard had the faith and confidence of his team and the coaching staff, as evidenced by being elected team captain and comments made by Brian VanGorder during a press conference earlier this season.
“I don’t know what it would have looked like,” said, VanGorder. “but I was counting on him getting … 15, 16 sacks this year.” This was a sentiment that was shared by Greenard as he softly added, “Me too.”
Though his playing time was limited, it was always impactful for the Cardinals. Playing in 22 games (5 starts), Greenard amassed 70 total tackles, 37 of them were solo. He also tallied 9.5 sacks on 22.5 tackles for loss, 1 interception, and 1 forced fumble.
Defensive coordinator, Todd Grantham already has a relationship with Greenard as he was Louisville’s DC from 2014-2016. Grantham was also a key recruiter in bringing the young defender’s talents to the program.
Todd Grantham on Jonathan Greenard: he had an offer from us and Kentucky. He chose us, so that tells you about his intelligence.
— Mark Blankenbaker (@UofLSheriff50) February 4, 2015
With Jachai Polite and Jabari Zuniga potentially opting to enter the NFL draft, Greenard will provide immediate experience to the defensive end position and has the versatility to fill in at linebacker as well. While this addition won’t factor into Florida’s class ranking, picking up Greenard is a big get for the Gators.
Update (January 9, 2019):
Greenard officially announced via Twitter that he will attend the University of Florida.
I want to thank God for giving me the opportunity to still be able to play this game. I want to thank the other universities for considering me as well. With that being said, I will be continuing my collegiate career as a Graduate Student at the University of Florida 🐊 🐊 🐊🐊
— Jon (@jongreenard7) January 9, 2019