New head coach Jon Sumrall demands toughness from Florida recruits. Only dedicated, football-loving athletes need apply to join the Gators' ambitious program.
New Florida head coach Jon Sumrall laid the foundation for his program during his first 15 practices with the team during spring ball.
The Gators completed their annual orange and blue game on Saturday. The team has several weeks off before training camp begins this summer.
Sumrall and his staff can turn their attention to recruiting this spring. Per On3, the Gators locked up the No. 13 recruiting class for 2026.
UF's capabilities in recruiting were a plus for Sumrall, who left Tulane after making the College Football Playoff.
When speaking to reporters on Saturday, Sumrall told reporters that he has a challenge for recruits. Tough players can move to Gainesville. Soft players need not apply.
"And there’s authentic relationships," Sumrall said, via Gator Country. "I think we coach every day — we’re not going to change. I tell recruits all the time. If you like us now, you’re gonna love us later.
"If you don’t like me now, go somewhere else, because I’m not changing. What you see’s what you get. If you want to come improve your craft every day, it’s gonna be a blast. If you’re tough and love football, it’s gonna be a blast. If you’re soft and you like football, don’t come here.”
Sumrall has been impressed with the resources Florida has at its disposal. He listed off several reasons why the Gators are a top destination for new recruits.
“We can get anybody to come visit the University of Florida if we want in America if we do a good job," Sumrall said. "This is not a really hard place to recruit to. We’re the fifth-ranked public school in the United States of America academically right now.
"You come outside today, and it’s beautiful. You come to the stadium, and you know the history and pageantry of what it feels like to play in this place. And you know the stadium renovations that are coming. You know the fan base is hungry for a winner."
Of course, players will feel better about signing up for Florida if Sumrall starts winning games.
Former head coach Billy Napier recruited decently, but never won enough games to really recruit the best players in the sport.