Florida's offensive line is set for a major overhaul this season, with three key starters-Austin Barber, Jake Slaughter, and Damieon George Jr.-moving on to pursue NFL dreams after their college eligibility wrapped up in 2025. The Gators have been proactive in addressing these gaps, bringing in a hefty class of transfers, particularly focusing on the offensive line. New head coach Jon Sumrall, along with offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner and offensive line coach Phil Trautwein, are spearheading this rebuild effort.
The Gators have welcomed four offensive line transfers, each bringing unique skills and connections to the new coaching staff. Among them are former Penn State guard TJ Shanahan Jr. and tackle Eagan Boyer, who followed Trautwein to Gainesville, and center Harrison Moore, who joined from Georgia Tech with Faulkner. Adding to the mix is former Stanford guard Emeka Ugorji.
Trautwein is enthusiastic about his former Nittany Lions linemen. Shanahan, a versatile interior lineman with experience across the line, has made significant strides in his college career.
He's logged snaps at both guard spots and center, showing his adaptability. At Texas A&M, Shanahan faced challenges, allowing two sacks and nine pressures over 131 pass-blocking snaps.
However, his performance improved markedly at Penn State, with zero sacks and only seven pressures over 206 pass-blocking reps.
Boyer, on the other hand, has been a developmental success story. Arriving at Penn State as a lean 235-pounder, he bulked up to 300 pounds and started at left tackle during the 2025 Pinstripe Bowl against Clemson. His college career has been marked by solid performance, as he has yet to allow a sack, though he has given up five pressures over 54 pass-blocking snaps.
Harrison Moore also brings valuable flexibility to Florida's interior line. At Georgia Tech, he split time between center and left guard, showing his ability to adapt and perform. Moore's pass protection has been reliable, with no sacks allowed over 405 career snaps and a commendable run-blocking grade.
Faulkner sees Moore as a player with a demeanor similar to Slaughter, Florida’s standout center who earned multiple All-American honors. Moore's toughness and commitment make him a promising addition, though he'll need to compete fiercely for his spot.
As Florida retools its offensive line, Shanahan, Boyer, and Moore are poised to vie for starting roles. They'll face stiff competition from returning starters like Knijeah Harris and Caden Jones, as well as other talented players like Roderick Kearney, whom Trautwein praises as a leader in the room.
Trautwein is optimistic about the group’s potential. He emphasizes the importance of effort and coachability, noting that the players are eager to learn and improve.
With a focus on refining their technique and fundamentals, Trautwein is excited about what this revamped offensive line can achieve. The Gators' O-line is shaping up to be a formidable unit, ready to tackle the challenges of the upcoming season.