The latest Florida Gator to hit the transfer portal is redshirt junior receiver [autotag]Marcus Burke[/autotag], a rare holdover from the Dan Mullen era who played rotational snaps in 2024.
Burke joined the program as a four-star recruit in 2021, playing in three games and redshirting as a true freshman. His first career catch was a 61-yarder against South Carolina, and he also caught a 12-yard pass in that game. Burke’s role increased in Year 2 with the Gators, playing in eight games and starting one; however, he only hauled in four receptions for 30 yards.
Billy Napier continued to use Burke in his first year as head coach, leading to career highs in receptions (6) and yards (98). Although Burke fell down the depth chart this season, he scored two touchdowns this season for the Gators. He finished the season with seven catches for 69 yards on 18 targets and only played in six games.
With one year of eligibility remaining, Burke is seeking a regular opportunity in a Division I rotation with hopes of getting a taste of the pros.
Florida’s options at receiver in 2025
With 18 receivers on the Florida roster, the position room was one of the deepest for the Gators in 2024 and should only get stronger next year.
While Florida stands to lose seniors Elijhah Badger, Chimere Dike and Ja’Quavion Fraziars, it’s only losing redshirt freshman Andy Jean and now Burke to the transfer portal.
Florida’s top receiver, Eugene Wilson III, returns with three more years of eligibility after injury led him to taking a redshirt. Behind him are rising fifth-year Kahleil Jackson and rising redshirt sophomore Aidan Mizell, as well as true freshmen TJ Abrams and Tank Hawkins.
The Gators also welcome an elite receivers class in the spring, led by five-star recruits Vernell Brown III and Dallas Wilson. Naeshaun Montgomery and Muizz Tounkara are also coming in and could see snaps as first years.
Florida also figures to bring in a transfer or two at the position, including UCLA transfer J. Michael Sturdivant and potentially five-star Tennessee receiver Johntay Cook.
Eight more walk-ons fill out the position room, but it remains unclear how many will return with NCAA roster limits changing this year.
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