SDS talent evaluators Jon Cooper and Brad Crawford spent several months breaking down last year’s highlights, incoming talent and projected 2014 impact following spring practice to compile a list of the SEC’s Top 100 players heading into fall. Athletes were selected by position then ranked overall counting down to No. 1.

Stick with SDS throughout summer and get in on the action using the hashtag #SDSTop100 as we unveil a new player daily leading up to opening night on Aug. 28.

46. Jake McGee, Sr., TE, Florida

No player was more excited about McGee’s arrival in Gainesville than Jeff Driskel, Florida’s dual-threat quarterback whose value has depreciated since the 2012 season thanks to injury, an under-performing offensive line and the overall lack of pass-catching weapons under Will Muschamp.

McGee, Driskel’s newest roommate, graduated from Virginia in May and is eligible to play immediately as a fifth-year senior under the NCAA graduate transfer rule. He provides the Gators with a new wrinkle and instant credibility on offense, a sure-handed target at a position that was nonexistent during Florida’s 4-8 finish. McGee’s 43 catches in his final season with the Cavaliers dwarfed Florida’s tight end production during the same span. Over 12 games, the Gators completed an SEC-low four passes to tight ends who are primarily utilized as extra blockers in power sets.

McGee already has an established relationship with first-year offensive coordinator Kurt Roper after the two met on the field multiple times in the ACC while Roper was at Duke. McGee was a Blue Devils target out of high school before choosing to stay close to home. It’s rare for a coordinator to get his guy later down the line, but Roper has that opportunity.

Wait until you see Driskel’s efficiency rating on third down this season. McGee’s the difference.

2013 statistics: 43 catches, 395 yards, 2 TD at Virginia
2014 projection: 46 catches, 499 yards, 4 TD