Florida's Jadan Baugh Earns Strong NFL Draft Prediction

Florida Gators star running back Jadan Baugh has played at a high level to open the 2026 season, building upon an already productive 2025 season.

Baugh has established himself as one of the best running backs in college football, as he's rushed for 296 tards and five touchdowns on 28 carries through the first two games. 

In the 2025 season with the Gators, he was a quality running back, as he rushed for 1,170 yards and eight touchdowns, along with 33 receptions for 210 yards and two touchdowns.

He is a powerful running back and does a great job of waiting for his blocks before accelerating through the hole.

Florida has leaned on him as their top weapon on offense, and he will continue to be a key piece for the team. With the way Baugh has played, he has established himself as the top running back for the 2027 NFL Draft.

In Todd McShay's latest mock draft for The Ringer, he has Baugh as the only running back to go in the first round, landing with the Denver Broncos with the 21st overall pick. 

If he joined the Broncos, he could create a dynamic young backfield with RJ Harvey and Jonah Coleman. That could be one of the best running back rooms in the league and help Denver as they try to contend for a Super Bowl. 

In the meantime, Baugh will look to continue his stellar season with Florida, as he is a contender to win the Heisman Trophy and the Doak Walker Award. The Gators will have their biggest challenge of the season thus far against the Auburn Tigers in Week 3.

Florida has transformed in the 2026 season, starting 2-0 under their new head coach Jon Sumrall. Sumrall joined the Gators after successful tenures at Troy and Tulane and kept Baugh in the program, which has done wonders for the offense.

Baugh will look to have another strong game on the ground, proving he is the best running back in college football and helping Florida become 3-0 in a matchup against Auburn.