Twin brothers Mandrell and Darryll Desir have officially chosen the Florida Gators over Notre Dame and Georgia — it’s a done deal.
**Twin Standouts Mandrell and Darryll Desir Choose Florida Gators Over Notre Dame and Georgia**
In a significant recruiting win for the University of Florida, twin brothers Mandrell and Darryll Desir have officially committed to the Florida Gators, turning down high-profile offers from Notre Dame and Georgia.
Their joint decision not only strengthens the Gators’ 2025 recruiting class but also sends a strong message about the program’s direction under head coach Billy Napier.
A Major Win for Florida
The Desir twins, hailing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, have been on the radar of top college football programs for the past two years.
Known for their athleticism, football IQ, and versatility, the brothers have been recruited as a package deal—a rare but powerful scenario that has now tipped in Florida’s favor.
This decision is especially notable considering the strength of the competition. Both Notre Dame and Georgia were heavily invested in landing the Desir twins.
Georgia, under Kirby Smart, remains one of the most dominant forces in college football, and Notre Dame continues to be a premier destination for student-athletes seeking a blend of elite academics and top-tier football.
For Florida to secure the commitment of two such sought-after athletes over these powerhouse programs marks a major recruiting milestone.
Who Are the Desir Twins?
Mandrell Desir, a 6-foot-2, 215-pound linebacker, is known for his explosive first step and strong instincts.
He thrives in open space, is an excellent tackler, and possesses the range to cover tight ends and running backs in the passing game.
Mandrell has consistently been ranked among the top 15 linebackers nationally in the 2025 class.
His brother, Darryll Desir, stands at 6-foot-1 and plays cornerback. Darryll brings a different set of skills to the table: elite speed, quick hips, and a nose for the football.
His technique is polished, and his ability to anticipate routes has led to an impressive number of interceptions during his high school career.
He has been featured on multiple All-State lists and was recently named to the Under Armour All-American roster.
What makes the Desirs particularly unique is their synergy on the field.
Playing on the same defensive unit since they were old enough to strap on pads, the twins have a nearly telepathic understanding of one another’s play.
Their bond translates into smart, disciplined defensive play, which is something Florida’s coaching staff no doubt found irresistible.
Why Florida?
According to sources close to the recruitment, the Desir twins felt a strong connection with Florida’s coaching staff.
Defensive coordinator Austin Armstrong was heavily involved in the recruitment process and reportedly built a strong rapport with both players and their family.
The opportunity to play in-state, close to home, and in front of family was also a major factor.
In a joint statement posted to their social media accounts, the brothers said.
We believe in Coach Napier’s vision, and we want to be a part of bringing Florida football back to the top.”
Florida has emphasized family values, culture, and player development under Napier’s regime—something that clearly resonated with the twins.
The Gators also presented a path for immediate playing time, which was reportedly less clear at Georgia and Notre Dame, where both programs are stacked with depth on defense.
Impact on Florida’s 2025 Class
The commitment of the Desir twins gives the Gators a significant boost in the 2025 recruiting rankings.
Florida now holds commitments from four players ranked in the top 100 nationally and has surged into the top five of most major recruiting services.
Beyond rankings, the Desirs bring leadership and high character.
Both are honor roll students, active in community service, and have been vocal leaders on their high school team.
Their addition not only makes the team better on paper but also elevates the locker room culture.
The commitment could also have a ripple effect. Several other high-profile Florida targets, including five-star edge rusher Tyrese Wilkins and wide receiver Lamarcus Hayes, have close relationships with the Desir twins.
Their decision may influence others to follow suit, potentially turning Florida’s 2025 class into one of the program’s best in recent memory.
The Road Ahead
For Mandrell and Darryll Desir, the journey is just beginning.
They’ll arrive in Gainesville with high expectations, not just because of their rankings or the fanfare surrounding their commitment, but because of what they represent—a resurgence of in-state talent choosing to stay home and build something special.
For Florida, this is a recruiting statement.
The Gators have faced stiff competition in the SEC, especially in the state of Florida, where Miami and Florida State have both experienced recent recruiting success.
The Desir twins’ commitment shows that Florida can still close on elite local talent and win head-to-head battles against national powers.
There will be pressure, of course. The SEC is unforgiving, and development will be key.
But Florida’s staff believes in their system and in the players they’re bringing in.
With the Desir twins on board, the future of the Gators’ defense looks significantly brighter.
Final Thoughts
The Desir twins choosing Florida over Notre Dame and Georgia is more than just a win in the recruiting world—it’s a cultural victory.
It reaffirms that Florida is once again becoming a place where top-tier athletes want to play.
It’s a testament to the coaching staff’s persistence and vision.
And for fans in Gainesville, it’s a reason to believe that the climb back to national prominence may be closer than it seems.
As the Desir brothers prepare for their senior season of high school football, they do so with their future secured—and the full backing of Gator Nation behind them.
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