UPDATED 5/5 @ 10:10 a.m. ET: It sounds as though Stewart will be headed closer to home. Much closer, in fact.
In a phone conversation with Desmond Conner of the Hartford Courant, Graham Stewart said he would be transferring to UConn. Stewart, as is mentioned below, is from Connecticut.
Being closer to his family is the major reason behind the move. Stewart hopes to receive a hardship waiver from the NCAA that would allow him to play right away, but wanting to be closer to family (barring a health issue) probably won’t be enough by itself for the waiver to be granted.
Then again, I present to you Exhibit A: Amir Carlisle.
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Apparently, one season in Gainesville was enough for Florida linebacker Graham Stewart, who announced his intention to transfer from the program today.
Stewart, who is from Connecticut and was a four-star member of UF’s 2011 recruiting class, cited personal reasons for the decision.
“I have some personal family issues that have caused me to evaluate how far I am away from home,’' Stewart said. “I appreciate my time in Gainesville and have nothing but good things to say about Coach Muschamp and the staff at Florida, but some things are more important. I really need to be closer to home.”
Stewart played in 12 games this past season, mostly on special teams. He did, however, block a punt against Ohio State in the Gator Bowl this past January. It’s unclear yet as to where Stewart will go.
“Graham has told me he wanted to leave to get closer to home due to some personal issues,’' Will Muschamp said. “Family always comes first with me and he needs to be closer to his family. I’m thankful for his contributions to our team and wish him nothing but the best of luck. He will always have my support and backing if he needs any help in the future.”
(Hat tip: Tampa Bay Times)