Coxson, a 6-foot-2, 196-pound senior, committed to Penn State last April after taking an unofficial visit to State College, Pa. Last month, however, Coxson and the Nittany Lions staff decided to go their separate ways.

“I mean the situation wasn’t tough because I know people said they pulled my scholarship, but they really didn’t pull my scholarship,” Coxson said. “I’m not really worried about the situation because I’m going to a better place for me.”

As a senior, Coxson played quarterback for the Knights, completing 27 of 57 passes for 650 yards and eight touchdowns, while rushing for 1,280 yards and 11 touchdowns on 106 carries. He also returned four punts for touchdowns and was selected to The Baltimore Sun’s All-Metro first team for his efforts.

Petrides said he was happy to see Coxson’s unselfishness rewarded with a scholarship to Florida.

“I think the style of player he is and the speed and elusiveness he has kind of fits right in with what they do,” Petrides said. “They say he would have an opportunity to play next year. They’re bringing in some other receivers, but they expect to throw the ball more because they had Tim Tebow for all those years. But they seem really excited about him.”

After an uncertain late stretch in his recruitment, Coxson said he’s thankful to have found a home for the next four years.

“I just feel like they can maximize my potential and I’m excited for the opportunity,” Coxson said. “I’m just going to come in and work hard and help them win another national championship.”

Baltimore Sun photo of Adrian Coxson by Karl Merton Ferron / Sept. 2, 2009