Report: Florida hires Colorado State’s Jim McElwain

Jim McElwain has been hired as Florida’s next football coach, ESPN has reported. The report said Florida is expected to announce the hire later on Thursday.

McElwain, 52, guided the school to a 10-2 record in his third season with Colorado State. He won the Mountain West’s Coach of the Year Award this season.

McElwain had a $7.5 million buyout on his contract with Colorado State, which the ESPN report says initially held up the deal.

With the Gators having struggled offensively under previous coach Will Muschamp, McElwain, proven on the offensive side of the ball, was reportedly Florida athletic director Jeremy Foley’s first choice. Currently, Colorado State ranks 13th nationally in total offense.

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Twitter: @SethGruen