Florida has reportedly cut ties with Marcus Castro-Walker, their NIL director, in connection with an ongoing investigation into the recruitment of quarterback Jaden Rashada, according to reports. Rashada had initially committed to an NIL deal with the Gator Collective but later backed out, choosing to attend Arizona State instead.
#Gators part ways with NIL director Marcus Castro-Walker. https://t.co/Iphj3wRSbQ
— Zach Abolverdi (@ZachAbolverdi) February 1, 2024
Sources interviewed by the NCAA told @TheAthletic last month that Walker was one of the subjects of their investigation into Florida re: Jaden Rashada recruitment. https://t.co/Cx0NTrZmdJ
— Stewart Mandel (@slmandel) February 1, 2024
The situation surrounding Rashada’s recruitment raised concerns about the proper honoring of NIL agreements. While Florida has been cooperating with the NCAA investigation, they are committed to maintaining excellence and integrity both on and off the field, as stated by Steve McClain, a spokesperson for the university.
As a result of these developments, Florida has decided to part ways with Marcus Castro-Walker, and the Gator Collective, which was not officially affiliated with the university, is no longer in existence.
Florida is determined to move past this episode, ensuring that non-football factors do not hinder their ability to recruit top talent in the future. Building a successful program in college football is challenging, and they are focused on eliminating any obstacles that may arise.