Vernell Brown III is staying in Gainesville-and he’s not just sticking around, he’s doubling down.
The Florida wide receiver made it official on Friday: he’ll be back in orange and blue for the 2026 season. The announcement came through Florida Victorious, the Gators’ NIL and marketing partner, and it’s a big one for a program in transition. Brown, a true freshman standout and a legacy player with deep Gator roots, isn’t just returning-he’s coming back with unfinished business.
“It’s everything,” Brown said of wearing the Florida jersey. “I wore the jersey growing up, always aspiring to play for the Florida Gators, so to be able to accomplish that dream and become a contributor in my first year, it was amazing.”
And contribute he did. In just 10 games, Brown led the team in receptions (40) and receiving yards (512), earning Freshman All-SEC honors along the way.
That kind of production from a first-year player doesn’t just happen-it’s the result of skill, preparation, and a mindset built for the moment. Brown started six games as a true freshman, and every time he stepped on the field, he looked like he belonged.
But for Brown, last year was just the beginning.
“Obviously, I was able to accomplish my goal of Freshman All-SEC,” he said, “but there’s still a lot left on the table, and I’m coming for it all next year.”
That next year will look a little different. Florida is undergoing a coaching overhaul, and Brown will now play under new head coach Jon Sumrall, new offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner, and a new position coach in Marcus Davis.
Still, Brown sounds energized by the changes. He said he’s already picking up on Sumrall’s “strength coach energy”-a tone-setter for a team that’s looking to reset its identity. As for Faulkner, Brown was already familiar with his name before the hire, but now he’s getting to know the coach behind the reputation.
“Bringing in Coach Buster, I was familiar with who he was. Great hire,” Brown said.
“Then, getting a chance to meet him, I didn’t really know him. So I got to meet him and start building a relationship with him, kind of learning his plan and seeing what are you going to do for us at the University of Florida.”
That relationship will be key. Faulkner, known for his creative offensive schemes, will be tasked with maximizing the talent on Florida’s roster-and Brown is at the top of that list. His ability to create separation, make plays after the catch, and serve as a reliable target in critical downs makes him a foundational piece for whatever system Faulkner installs.
Marcus Davis, who previously coached wide receivers at Auburn, is set to take over the same role in Gainesville. While the university hasn’t formally announced his hiring, Davis has updated his social media accounts to reflect his new position on staff.
For Brown, the return to Florida is about more than just building on his freshman year. It’s about legacy, loyalty, and leading a new era of Gator football.
He’s already proven he can make an impact. Now, he’s aiming to take that next step-and bring the Gators with him.