The Florida Gators turn to new head coach Jon Sumrall in hopes of returning to the glory days when they were a force in the SEC. Sumrall led the Tulane Green Wave to a college football playoff appearance last year, but will he be able to handle the massive jump in competition? Georgia Tech transfer Aaron Philo will take over quarterback duties from the departed quarterback DJ Lagway (now at Baylor). Philo follows new offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner from Georgia Tech, giving them prior familiarity. Jadan Baugh led the Gators with 98 yards per game and returns, with additional help from Cincinnati transfer Evan Pryor. Florida returns their top receiver from a year ago in Vernell Brown, and four of the top eight pass catchers also return. The Gators have an experienced offensive line as Knijeah Harris and Caden Jones return, along with three transfers: Emeka Ugorji, Harrison Moore, and TJ Shanahan.

Brad White will take over as the defensive coordinator with seven of the eleven top tacklers returning. Myles Graham led the team with 76 tackles, and Bryce Thornton with 56. The Gators are solid on all three phases of defense and should have an immediate impact to start the season. Florida has high hopes for Baylor transfer DJ Coleman to help anchor a loaded secondary.

First-year special teams coach Johnathan Galante brings over a host of outstanding players from Tulane. Patrick Durkin connected on 89% of his field goals, and Alec Clark had a 46.5 average last year for the Green Wave. Vernell Brown will handle the return duties. With talent across the board and a new coaching staff in place, the Gators have reason for optimism heading into 2026.