Poole could be starter at safety after big spring game

Brian Poole should head into the summer feeling good about himself and his chances to get a lot of playing time next season for Florida.

 Playing safety and cornerback in Florida’s version of its spring football game, Poole made the biggest impact among all the defensive backs.

 The Southeast High product, who will be a sophomore next season, recorded two sacks off safety blitzes and picked up a fumbled bad snap for what would’ve been a touchdown in game circumstances.

Poole is being used at cornerback and safety, but figures to see more time at the latter position because of his physical attributes and Florida’s needs. Defensive coordinator D.J. Durkin showered him with praise on more than one occasion.

Poole figures to be one of the starters at safety along with Cody Riggs. Some members of the coaching staff are predicting he can be in the same class as last year’s starting safety Matt Elam, who left early and figures to be an NFL first round draft pick this month.

In his senior year at Southeast, Poole was rated the number two cornerback in the country and the 25^th best player in the country. He has the speed to play corner, but coaches like him at safety because of his size (5-10, 210 pounds) and toughness.