Cody Riggs (31) is heading to South Bend to finish his college career. (Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports)
Experienced Florida defensive back Cody Riggs is transferring to Notre Dame for the 2014 season.
Notre Dame confirmed the news on Wednesday that Riggs, who will earn a diploma from Florida in the spring, will join the Fighting Irish this summer and be eligible to play right away because of NCAA graduate transfer rules.
“Cody Riggs is an outstanding player,” Notre Dame coach Brian Kelly said in a release. “He played a ton of football at Florida, having started at both safety and cornerback. Cody definitely brings veteran leadership and versatility to our team and defense.”
Riggs started 26 games and played in 40 games for the Gators in three seasons. He brings SEC experience to the Notre Dame secondary, having been a part of defenses at Florida that ranked second in FBS in opponent’s passer rating in 2012 and eighth in 2013.
The fifth-year senior will enroll in the Notre Dame business school as a graduate student. He said his decision to transfer was academic related.
“Notre Dame is the perfect fit for me academically and football-wise,” Riggs told SI.com.
But there have been reports that he was not happy with his move in 2013 from safety to cornerback.
“I am very thankful for this opportunity,” Riggs said. “I fully intend to make the most of this opportunity by not only giving my absolute best effort, but also leading by example both on and off the field.”
