LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) – Jonathan Greenard, the University of Louisville’s top returning defensive player, plans to leave the program after graduation in December and transfer to Florida, according to a report from Rivals.com, though U of L says Greenard told the athletics department on Sunday that neither he nor his family has spoken with Florida.
Greenard, a team captain who led the Cardinals in tackles for loss two seasons ago, will graduate in December and transfer to Florida, according to Rivals.com reporter Dave Lackford.
Greenard injured his hand in the 2018 opener against Alabama and did not play again. He’ll be eligible to play immediately for the Gators – and former Louisville defensive coordinator Todd Grantham, who now holds the same position at Florida.
Lackford reports that should Grantham leave Florida for a head-coaching job, Greenard could follow him. And if not, there’s playing time to be had for the 6-4 defensive end from Hiram, Ga.
Meanwhile, U of L moved to dispel the report when asked to confirm whether Greenard had gone through the transfer procedures or even asked about transfering. A statement released by the school noted that Greenard has not accessed the NCAA's transfer portal, though if he transfers as a graduate it's not clear whether he would need to.
In 2017, he appeared in all 13 games for the Cardinals, leading the team and ranking 15th nationally in tackles for loss with 15.5. His seven sacks tied for the team lead.
Greenard’s departure is another blow for an already-reeling Louisville defense that allowed 44.1 points and 483.5 yards per game last season, both among the worst totals for all Power 5 teams in the nation.
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