Florida football’s 2025 recruiting class has soared into the spotlight, earning a coveted top 10 ranking according to ESPN.
Spearheaded by dynamic playmakers on both sides of the ball, this group is a testament to head coach Billy Napier’s prowess in attracting elite talent. The Gators boast 12 ESPN 300 recruits, including their top offensive prospect wide receiver Vernell Brown III and linebacker Ty Jackson.
This infusion of top-tier talent is set to elevate the Gators’ competitive edge, promising an exciting future for the program. ESPN staff writer Craig Haubert compiled a list of the Top 75 schools with the best 2025 recruiting class and the Gators were ranked No. 10.
This is what Haubert said about Florida football’s recruiting class.
Florida’s 2025 recruiting class
ESPN 300: 12
Top offensive prospect: WR Vernell Brown III
Top defensive prospect: LB Ty Jackson
Ranking entering Wednesday: 10
“While the 2024 season has presented challenges, a strong finish has Billy Napier closing well in recruiting as well as he continues to add impact talent.
“Jalen Wiggins was a key in-state keep, pulling him out of rival Florida State’s backyard. He is an aggressive DL with excellent length and good initial quickness and range. He has shown he can be tough to handle, recording 16 sacks as a junior and another 14 as a senior with nearly 50 TFLs over two seasons.
“LB Ty Jackson was headed out of state, but the Gators were able to persuade him to stay near home. He gives them an explosive player who can aggressively close on ball carriers.
“On offense, Waltez Clark is a smooth runner with the speed to generate explosive plays when he gets in the open field. Another addition to the backfield is Byron Louis, whom they flipped from in-state rival Florida State. Louis is a runner with nice size (6 feet, 205) and deceptive speed, having been recorded at more than 21 mph in game play.
“Vernell Brown III has good hands and a nice blend of speed and quickness and can be not only a playmaking target on offense but also a dangerous weapon in the return game. Nae’shaun Montgomery, a smooth route runner, adds to Florida’s bevy of ESPN 300 receivers.
“To further develop depth at QB, the Gators also landed four-star Tramell Jones Jr., a passer with a strong arm and quick release. He was an MVP performer this past offseason at UA Orlando camp and brings upside at the position.”
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