Jon Sumrall is focused on assembling his inaugural coaching staff at Florida for the 2026 season, while simultaneously strengthening his roster. A key player on Sumrall’s radar is standout running back Jadan Baugh, who had an impressive breakout season, finishing with 1,170 rushing yards and 8 touchdowns. Reports indicate that Baugh is scheduled to meet in person with Sumrall this week, which highlights the Gators’ new coach’s commitment to keeping this talented athlete in Gainesville.
During a challenging season for Florida, marked by the dismissal of head coach Billy Napier, Baugh emerged as a prominent force on the field. He became Florida’s first single-season 1,000-yard rusher in a decade, which underscores his significance to Sumrall’s plans for the upcoming season. Retaining Baugh is crucial for Sumrall as he looks to revitalize the Gators’ football program.
Baugh’s potential decision is made more complex by interest from other elite programs, including SEC rivals Texas and Georgia, as well as the defending national champion Ohio State. Before his standout 2025 season, Baugh showed promise as a freshman, accumulating 673 rushing yards and 7 touchdowns in 2024, setting the stage for his remarkable progress.
As Sumrall seeks to clarify Baugh’s status for the 2026 season, this week’s meeting could be pivotal. The potential retention of Baugh not only symbolizes a significant success in Sumrall’s early tenure but also represents hope for the future of Florida football, suggesting a promising foundation for the years ahead.