It’s official: Mandrell and Darryll Desir, twin brothers, have decided to play for the Florida Gators instead of Georgia or Notre Dame.
It’s Official: Twin Standouts Mandrell and Darryll Desir Commit to Florida Gators Over Georgia and Notre Dame
In a major recruiting win for the Florida Gators, twin brothers Mandrell and Darryll Desir have officially announced their commitment to play college football in Gainesville. The highly touted prospects — one a dominant linebacker, the other an elite wide receiver — chose the Gators over powerhouse programs Georgia and Notre Dame, capping months of speculation and nationwide interest in their recruiting saga.
The Desir twins, originally from Miami, Florida, have been standout performers at every level, attracting national attention for their athleticism, versatility, and football IQ. Mandrell, the more vocal of the two, made the announcement via a joint video posted to social media. “We’re staying home,” he said. “It’s Gator Nation all the way.”
Their decision is a monumental coup for head coach Billy Napier and his staff, who had made the twins a top priority since early in the recruiting cycle. The commitment not only strengthens Florida’s 2025 class but also serves as a symbolic victory over SEC rival Georgia and storied independent Notre Dame, both of whom pushed hard until the end.
Mandrell Desir: The Defensive Anchor
Mandrell, a 6-foot-2, 225-pound linebacker, has been hailed as one of the most complete defensive players in the country. Known for his sideline-to-sideline speed and instinctive playmaking, he’s projected as a future cornerstone of Florida’s defense. His senior season stats are staggering: over 100 tackles, 10 sacks, and 3 interceptions — including two returned for touchdowns.
Scouts have praised his leadership qualities and high motor, with some comparing his skillset to former Gators legend Brandon Spikes. “Mandrell plays like he’s shot out of a cannon,” said one SEC scout. “He’s a tone-setter, and he’s only scratching the surface.”
Darryll Desir: The Offensive Game-Changer
Darryll, meanwhile, is a 6-foot-1, 190-pound wideout with elite speed and route-running ability. He recorded 1,300 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns last season, routinely burning top defenders in one-on-one coverage. His ability to stretch the field vertically and make plays after the catch has made him one of the most dangerous offensive weapons in the 2025 class.
The connection between the brothers on and off the field is undeniable. They’ve spent their entire football careers playing together, and they made it clear they had no plans to separate at the college level.
“Where one goes, we both go,” Darryll said. “Florida gave us the chance to play together at the highest level and stay close to our family. That made the difference.”
A Message to the SEC
Their joint commitment sends a clear message: Florida is back in the fight for top-tier talent, not just in the Sunshine State, but nationally. The Gators’ recruiting momentum is building, and the Desir twins are now the faces of that movement.
With Mandrell anchoring the defense and Darryll threatening defenses deep, the Gators are getting two elite players — and brothers — who could transform the program for years to come.
