Give Jim McElwain credit, he’s making moves in order to improve his coaching staff for on-the-field work as well as recruiting prowess. The latest addition comes from running backs coach Ja’Juan Seider from West Virginia.

A native of Florida, Seider has spent the last four years in the Big 12 at West Virginia. During his time in Morgantown, Seider has helped three running backs reach the 1,000-yard mark in his four seasons. Arguably the most notable player Seider helped coach was 2015 Big 12 rushing champion Wendell Smallwood, who rushed for 1,519 yards that season.

Before landing at West Virginia, Seider served as running backs coach and recruiting coordinator for Marshall. At Marshall, Seider recruited quarterback Rakeem Cato, the 2012 C-USA Player of the Year.

Seider’s connections to the South Florida area should be of particular interest to Gator fans, as Miami, Florida State, and Florida are in constant battle for players from the area.

McElwain expressed his excitement with this new addition to his coaching staff via release:

“We are excited to have Ja’Juan in the Gator family. A lot is talked about his ability to recruit, but he is more than that – he is a great coach as well. Recruiting is about relationships and he does a great job of connecting and relating to players not only while is recruiting them, but while they are playing for him and well after their playing days are over.”

Ja’Juan Seider’s made comments via release, as well:

“I’ve always had an affinity for this university and am honored to have the opportunity to join the Florida Gators family. I look forward to working with Coach Mac and his staff. I can’t wait to meet the players, spend time with them and help them achieve their goals.”