The Florida Gators have strengthened their roster by securing a commitment from former Baylor University defensive lineman DK Kalu. The announcement came on December 12, 2023, during his visit to Gainesville, just as the transfer portal officially opened. Kalu, a redshirt sophomore, aims to contribute to the Gators’ defensive lineup for the upcoming season.
Kalu participated in nine games for Baylor this past season, achieving a total of 11 tackles, one hurry, and half a tackle for loss across six starts. His standout performance occurred against Cincinnati, where he recorded three tackles and earned a 59.5 PFF grade. According to 247 Sports transfer rankings, the 6-foot-4, 309-pound lineman is considered a three-star prospect, ranking as the 45th-best player available at his position.
Prior to his collegiate career, Kalu was a highly regarded recruit, finishing high school as a consensus three-star prospect. He was ranked as the No. 23 defensive lineman nationally and the No. 69 overall prospect in Texas. During his time at Ridge Point High School, he accumulated 93 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, and three sacks. In his freshman year at Baylor, Kalu made one start and recorded a single tackle, but he saw significant improvement in playing time this year, logging 281 snaps.
Kalu’s family background is notable; his father, N.D. Kalu, enjoyed an 11-season career in the NFL, playing for teams such as the Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Commanders, and Houston Texans. He totaled 195 tackles and 31 sacks during his time in the league. This lineage adds a layer of experience and expectation to Kalu’s transition to the Gators.
With the departure of Caleb Banks to the NFL Draft and Michai Boireau entering the transfer portal, Florida has identified a need for depth on their defensive line. While Kalu may not yet be a regular starter, his accumulated game experience over the past two seasons positions him as a valuable addition.
The Gators’ success in recruiting extends beyond Kalu. On the same weekend, safety DJ Coleman also committed to Florida. Coleman recorded 89 tackles and two interceptions during his three seasons at Baylor, with a strong performance last year that included 46 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, and two interceptions.
In addition to Kalu and Coleman, Florida hosted several other transfer candidates, including quarterback Aaron Philo from Georgia Tech, receiver Bailey Stockton, tight ends Lacota Dippre from James Madison and Dorian Thomas from New Mexico, offensive lineman DJ Shanahan from Penn State, and defensive lineman Emmanuel Oyabadejo from Jacksonville State.
As the transfer portal continues to create significant movement in college football, updates will be closely monitored for any developments relevant to the Florida Gators’ roster.
