OL Dontae Lucas nearing a decision, feels at home during Florida visit

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Dontae Lucas was a priority recruiting visit for Florida on Saturday.

The 4-star offensive guard may be a 2019 prospect, but he’s one of the best linemen in the state — regardless of class — and plans to make his decision soon.

A few schools are standing out in his mind, including UF.

“Florida is one of my tops,” Lucas said. “We’ll know after this season where I’m committed to. It’s either Miami, ‘Bama, Florida or wherever. Auburn. It’s a lot. I’ll drop my top 10 and then we’ll know.”

Lucas last visited the Gators in late July for Friday Night Lights, and his return trip this weekend improved their chances.

“Basically, I feel like I’m at home. Everything is good,” Lucas said when asked what stood out about Florida.

“On this visit, Florida made me feel like this could be where I want to be. I’m just enjoying the recruitment, but I’ll know soon.”

The 6-foot-3, 323-pound Lucas is ranked the nation’s No. 9 offensive guard and No. 39 overall prospect in the 247Sports Composite.

He expected Florida to beat Texas A&M.

“Basically, I saw a good team just … sometimes it doesn’t come out how it’s supposed to,” Lucas said. “The team was supposed to get the win, but sometimes it doesn’t happen. But I saw a great team, great coaches, great staff.”

Lucas is close with Gators offensive line coach Brad Davis and has been impressed with the play of his unit this season. However, he sees an opportunity to potentially play early at Florida.

“Great coach. He treats me basically like I’m one of his people — close people,” Lucas said of Davis. “He keeps it real. He’ll tell you what you can do when you get here from the start. Basically, I gotta work to get the spot.

“They’re a good offensive line. I saw a lot. Martez had a couple of good pancakes. They’re aggressive. I think me as a person would bring more to the O-line, though.”