Three-star DL Jachai Polite commits to Florida

The Florida Gators’ packed Class of 2016 added its 22nd member on Thursday when three-star defensive lineman Jachai Polite (Daytona Beach, FL) verbally committed to the program.

Polite (6-foot-3, 250 pounds) currently plays defensive end for Mainland High School but could move inside on the collegiate level.

The fourth defensive lineman to commit to the Gators for 2016, Polite chose Florida over offers from nearly two dozen programs, including Auburn, Miami and Tennessee. Defensive line coach Chris Rumph played a major role in Polite’s recruitment.

Polite is also the 15th member of the Gators’ class from within the state but would be the first player to enroll at Florida from either Daytona Beach or Mainland since 2005 (Avery Atkins, Brian Ellis).

He is also the 15th three-star prospect to join the Gators class, according to the 247Sports Composite. Four-star defensive end Antonneous Clayton (Vienna, GA) was the last player from his position group to join the program, doing so on Oct. 28.

Polite’s commitment was first reported by Luke Stampini of 247Sports.