It’s not easy to get better when you’re already one of the most talented cornerbacks in the nation.
That’s what sophomore Vernon Hargreaves III is facing in 2014. Even after recording three interceptions and 11 pass breakups as a freshman, he has some ideas on how to improve.
“I just need to be a better leader,” the Tampa native said. “A lot of guys are looking up to me now, a lot of freshman corners we have now. Just being a better leader and staying on top of my game.”
Hargreaves is setting an example for the secondary, which is reloading this season to fill the voids of NFL Draft prospects Marcus Roberson, Loucheiz Purifoy and Jaylen Watkins. True freshmen Duke Dawson and Jalen Tabor are fighting for the corner spot opposite Hargreaves. Hargreaves knows what it’s like to have high expectations in year one.
“You’ve just got to focus. Focus on what you can do because it’s hard and coming at you fast, especially with the up-tempo offense we have,” he said. “Everything is faster than what it usually goes. I tell them to be focused. Everything else will take care of itself.”
Hargreaves’ father, Vernon Jr., is the current linebackers coach at Houston. Prior to Houston, he coached defensive ends and special teams at USF for three seasons and was on Connecticut’s staff for 13 years. Growing up as a coach’s son helped shape Hargreaves into the player he is today.
“I’ve been around football for as long as I can remember,” Hargreaves said. “Being around, when my dad coached at Miami, I was around all those great players like Ed Reed, Sean Taylor. I was around all them. I remember how hard they used to work and compete. I took that from them.”
A professional opportunity for defensive backs at Florida exists — a number of proficient players under coach Will Muschamp and defensive backs coach Travaris Robinson have succeeded at the next level. Some notables include Baltimore Raven Matt Elam, Jacksonville Jaguar Josh Evans and Roberson and Purifoy.
“Coach Muschamp and Coach T-Rob know a lot of players, Muschamp’s coached in the league. They know what it’s like and our defense is based on a NFL scheme,” Hargreaves said.
“(Former defensive coordinator) Dan Quinn is at the Seahawks now, he coached last year, he knows a lot of the stuff that we do. We base a lot of our stuff off of what he does, so it’s just a great opportunity.”
Saturday marks Florida’s annual Orange and Blue Debut, a chance to give fans a glimpse of things to come for the season. The All-SEC corner knows a thing or two about making a good first impression.
“Coach Muschamp is kind of emphasizing on first impressions,” Hargreaves said.
“We’re just going to go out there, have fun show a lot of effort, a lot of enthusiasm, try to execute as best as we can. Whatever happens, happens.”
Follow Morgan Moriarty on Twitter @Morgan_Moriarty
Vernon Hargreaves III intercepts a pass in the end zone during Florida’s 24-7 victory on Sept. 28, 2013, at Commonwealth Stadium in Lexington, Ky.
