The Florida Gators are getting a major boost heading into Jon Sumrall’s first season at the helm, as three key young players - including former 5-star edge rusher LJ McCray - are set to return for the 2026 campaign.
McCray, one of the crown jewels of Florida’s 2024 recruiting class, is back in the fold after an injury-shortened sophomore season. The Daytona Beach Mainland product came to Gainesville with sky-high expectations, and for good reason. Rated as the No. 5 player in Florida and the No. 20 overall prospect in the nation by the 247Sports Composite, McCray brought a rare blend of size, athleticism, and upside to the Gators’ defensive front.
At 6-foot-6 and 268 pounds, McCray made an immediate impact as a true freshman in 2024, appearing in all 13 games. While his stat line - 13 total tackles, including one for loss, a half sack, and five quarterback hurries - didn’t leap off the page, his presence was felt.
He flashed the kind of disruptive potential that makes coaches and fans alike excited about what’s to come. Unfortunately, that momentum was halted in 2025 when an injury limited him to just one appearance all season.
Now healthy and returning under a new coaching regime, McCray has a fresh opportunity to reestablish himself as a game-changer on the edge. If he can stay on the field, he’s a player who could thrive in Sumrall’s defensive system - one that’s expected to be aggressive and physical up front.
Joining McCray in returning for 2026 are inside linebacker Jaden Robinson and offensive lineman Jason Zandamela, two more young players who could play significant roles in the Gators’ rebuild.
Robinson, who stepped into a starting role in 2025, was a steady presence in the middle of the defense. He racked up 50 total tackles, including 28 solo stops, four tackles for loss, two sacks, and three quarterback hurries.
He also showed some versatility in coverage with three pass breakups. Across 611 total snaps - 491 on defense and 120 on special teams - Robinson proved he could handle a heavy workload and contribute in multiple phases of the game.
His return gives Florida a dependable tackler and communicator in the heart of the defense - a crucial piece for a unit looking to find its identity.
Then there’s Zandamela, an intriguing offensive line prospect originally from Mozambique who joined the Gators out of Clearwater Academy in 2024. After redshirting his first year, he saw limited action in 2025 with just one game appearance.
Still, his physical tools and international background make him a developmental player worth watching. With another offseason to grow and get comfortable in the system, Zandamela could push for a larger role in the trenches, especially as Florida looks to solidify its offensive line depth.
All three players are represented by Legacy Sports Advisors, and their return represents more than just roster stability - it’s a sign of buy-in under the new leadership. For Sumrall, who steps into a program looking to turn the page and build a tougher, more consistent identity, having talented young pieces like McCray, Robinson, and Zandamela stick around is a strong start.
There’s still a long road ahead for Florida, but keeping core players like these in the program gives the Gators a foundation to build on. If McCray can bounce back, Robinson continues his upward trajectory, and Zandamela develops into a contributor, this trio could be key to Florida’s next chapter.