The Gators' 2025 season wrapped with a statement win over rival Florida State, 40-21, but the broader picture tells a different story - Florida finishes the year at 4-8, falling well short of expectations. Still, even in a tough season, individual talent tends to rise above the noise, and several Gators are now turning their attention toward the 2026 NFL Draft. From potential first-rounders to undrafted hopefuls, Florida has a wide range of prospects looking to take the next step.
Let’s break down the key names to watch as the draft process begins.
Caleb Banks - DL
Caleb Banks is the kind of player scouts circle early and keep tabs on, even through adversity.
He was already on NFL radars last year, but chose to return for his senior season - a decision that unfortunately came with some injury setbacks. A foot injury in fall camp sidelined him to start the year, and after returning in Florida’s 20-10 loss to LSU, he re-injured the same foot mid-game.
Despite the limited action, Banks still found himself ranked No. 65 on CBS’s Top 100 prospects list and is currently projected as a late first-rounder. That speaks volumes about his upside.
When healthy, Banks brings the kind of disruptive presence on the defensive line that NFL teams covet.
Tyreak Sapp - EDGE
If there’s a player who truly elevated his stock in 2024, it’s Tyreak Sapp.
The redshirt senior delivered his most complete season in Gainesville, posting a team-best 90.4 PFF grade and racking up seven sacks. Across his Florida career, Sapp totaled 124 tackles and 10 sacks, showcasing consistency and growth.
He’s currently projected as a third-round pick, and with his blend of experience, production, and motor off the edge, he could be a valuable Day 2 addition for a team needing depth at pass rusher.
Austin Barber - OT
Barber has been a rock on the left side of the line this season, starting every game and anchoring the Gators’ protection schemes.
At 6-foot-6 with solid footwork and a strong punch, he’s earned a late second-round projection from NFL Draft Buzz. Offensive tackles with his size and experience don’t stay on the board long, and Barber’s steady play in the SEC has certainly helped his case.
Jake Slaughter - OL
Slaughter has quietly built a solid draft profile.
The redshirt senior has started every game this season and posted a strong 86.4 pass-blocking grade. He’s not flashy, but interior linemen who can hold their own in pass protection are in high demand.
Projected as an early second-round pick, Slaughter’s versatility and reliability make him one of Florida’s top prospects heading into the draft cycle.
Eugene Wilson III - WR
Wilson’s season was hampered by a high ankle sprain that limited him to just eight games, but when he was on the field, he flashed the kind of playmaking ability that gets teams interested.
The redshirt sophomore finished with three touchdowns and 239 receiving yards - modest numbers, but enough to earn a Day 3 projection (Rounds 4-7). He’s the kind of developmental receiver with upside, and his Pro Day could go a long way in determining where he lands.
Trey Smack - K
Kickers don’t always get the spotlight, but Smack made sure to earn his mention this season.
With an 82.8% field goal percentage and a school record nine field goals from 50+ yards, he’s proven he’s got the leg for the next level. ESPN’s Mel Kiper listed him as the No. 5 kicker in the country, and while specialists often wait late into the draft or sign as free agents, Smack’s resume gives him a real shot at hearing his name called.
Devin Moore - DB
Moore has been a steady presence in the secondary, starting 11 games this season and tallying 35 of his 64 career tackles in 2025.
He’s currently projected as a seventh-round pick and sits at No. 99 on CBS’s Top 100 prospects list. While he may not have elite measurables, Moore’s experience and football IQ could appeal to teams looking to add depth in the defensive backfield.
J. Michael Sturdivant - WR
Sturdivant’s journey has been a winding one - from Cal to UCLA to Florida - but he’s put together a respectable college career. With 150 receptions and over 2,000 receiving yards, including 27 catches at Florida, he’s done enough to earn looks from NFL teams, even if he’s currently projected to go undrafted.
His path may not include a draft selection, but don’t be surprised if he earns a training camp invite and fights his way onto a roster.
George Gumbs Jr. - LB
Gumbs Jr. brought toughness to the Florida defense after transferring from Northern Illinois.
He played in 10 games this season and logged 401 snaps, bringing his career tackle total to 100 - 66 of those coming in Gainesville. His best year came in 2024, where he posted 35 tackles and five sacks.
Like Sturdivant, he’s currently projected as an undrafted free agent, but his productivity and experience could land him a shot in a pro camp.
Looking Ahead
The 2026 NFL Draft is set for April 23-25, and while Florida’s Pro Day date hasn’t been announced yet, it will be a crucial showcase for these prospects.
For some, it’s about solidifying early-round status. For others, it’s a chance to climb the board or simply get on a team’s radar.
Regardless of where they land, this group of Gators has the potential to make an impact at the next level - and they’ll be looking to prove it every step of the way.