Florida Gators Set to Hire Deron Wilson as Cornerbacks Coach, Reuniting with Head Coach Billy Napier
The Florida Gators football program is poised to welcome back a familiar face, as former Arkansas cornerbacks coach Deron Wilson is set to join the staff as the team’s new cornerbacks coach. Wilson’s hiring marks his second stint under head coach Billy Napier, having previously served as a quality control analyst for the Gators in 2022.
Wilson’s return to Gainesville comes on the heels of his brief tenure as Georgia State’s defensive coordinator, a position he never had the opportunity to coach a game in. Prior to his stint with the Panthers, Wilson spent the 2023 and 2024 seasons as the cornerbacks coach at Arkansas, where he played a key role in shaping the Razorbacks’ pass defense.
During his time at Arkansas, Wilson’s unit showed marked improvement in 2023, ranking fourth in the SEC with 202.8 yards per game allowed through the air. The Razorbacks also intercepted 12 passes that season, good for third in the conference and 39th nationally. However, the team’s pass defense took a step back in 2024, allowing 246.9 yards per game and ranking 110th nationally.
Despite the dip in production last season, Wilson’s experience and expertise make him an attractive addition to the Gators’ coaching staff. He will work alongside Vinnie Sunseri, who was hired as a co-defensive coach, to shape the team’s cornerbacks and help improve the overall pass defense.
The hiring of Wilson presumably rounds out Florida’s coaching staff for the 2025 season, although head coach Billy Napier has indicated that the program is still working on contract extensions and may be exploring additional assistant coaching hires for the offensive side of the ball.
As the Gators prepare for the upcoming season, the addition of Wilson to the coaching staff is a significant boost. His experience, knowledge, and familiarity with Napier’s system make him an ideal fit for the program, and his hiring is a clear indication of the team’s commitment to improving its defensive performance.
With Wilson on board, the Gators can now focus on building momentum and making a push for success in the highly competitive Southeastern Conference. As the team navigates the challenges of the upcoming season, Wilson’s presence will undoubtedly be a valuable asset in the pursuit of excellence.
