Gator Sports Nation was told from close sources yesterday that Florida Gator junior cornerback Janoris Jenkins was going to return for his senior season and now Jenkins himself has made it official.

Jenkins, a three year starter at Florida and a possible first-round draft pick, has recorded eight interceptions, three of those eight picks were from this past year. He was also named to the first-team All-SEC. Jenkins did not play in the 2011 Outback Bowl against Penn State due to a shoulder injury.

One of the big reasons why Jenkins decided to come back was because of the recovery time that would affect him when he goes to prepare for the NFL draft following the surgery on his shoulder. He just wouldn’t of been ready with that shoulder.

Todd McShay of ESPN has Jenkins rated as the No. 2 corner in the NFL draft and the No. 11 overall.

“I spent some time with my family and coach [Will] Muschamp and came to the conclusion it was in my best interest to return to school,” Jenkins said in a statement. “Coach Muschamp was very supportive throughout the whole process, regardless of my decision, but he wanted to make sure I had all of the facts. I’m looking forward to working towards my degree, completing my rehab and getting back on the field with my teammates.”

Head coach Will Muschamp replied to Jenkins’ decision.

“It would have been real easy for Janoris to make an emotional choice and leave early,” Muschamp said. “But with our contacts in the NFL, we were able to assist him in understanding his draft status and he made an educated decision that will be beneficial to him in the long term.”

[Quotes gathered by ESPN/Associated press]