by Fitzgerald Cecilio

Gainesville, FL

University of Florida Gators quarterback Jeff Driskel said he remains primarily a football player after signing a professional contract with the Boston Red Sox.

The 6-foot-4, 237-pound junior plans to pursue a professional career in the NFL after college.

"Yes, I signed with the Red Sox. Nothing changes," said Driskel, who was drafted by the Red Sox in the 29th round last month. "I am still a full-time student athlete at UF, fully committed to football."

Driskel led Florida to an 11-2 record last season in his first year as its starter. He completed 156 of 245 passes for 1,646 yards and 12 touchdowns with five interceptions. He also rushed for 413 yards and four touchdowns.

An outfielder at Hagerty High School t Oviedo (Fla.), Driskel hasn't played baseball since he was a senior in 2011.

Driskell admits baseball will serve as a fallback to Driskel's football career.

"If I ever decide I want to play baseball, I want to play with the Boston Red Sox, who drafted me in the recent draft," he said.

NCAA rules allow athletes to sign professional contracts in baseball but still remain eligible in football as long as they do not sign endorsement deals.

This isn't the first time a Gators quarterback has signed a professional baseball contract. Doug Johnson, an infielder, was drafted in the second round by the Tampa Bay Rays in 1996 but attended Florida from 1996-99.

He played two seasons in the Rays' minor league system before suffering a rotator cuff injury and committing to football full-time.

 

Article: Copyright © - All Rights Reserved

"Gators QB Jeff Driskel focused on football despite pro baseball contract"