In a significant development for the Florida Gators’ recruiting efforts, Duncanville (Tx.) prospect KJ Ford, one of the nation’s top edge rusher prospects in the 2026 recruiting class, has included the Gators among his final 12 schools. Ford’s announcement on Thursday sent shockwaves throughout the college football world, as the highly coveted recruit narrows down his options.
Ford’s impressive resume boasts a consensus top 20 edge rusher ranking in the class, with Rivals listing him as the No. 9 overall prospect at his position. The 6-4, 245-pound standout also cracks the top 100 overall recruits regardless of position in Rivals and 247 Sports’ prospect rankings, underscoring his exceptional talent and potential.
The Florida Gators’ inclusion among Ford’s final 12 schools is a testament to the program’s reputation for excellence and its ability to attract top-tier talent. UF’s coaching staff, led by Billy Napier, has been working tirelessly to build relationships with the nation’s top prospects, and Ford’s consideration of the Gators is a significant coup for the program.
Ford’s final 12 schools also include Alabama, Auburn, Georgia, LSU, Missouri, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Ole Miss, Penn State, Texas A&M, and USC. As one of the most sought-after recruits in the country, Ford’s decision will be closely watched by college football fans and analysts alike.
The Florida Gators’ chances of landing Ford will depend on various factors, including the program’s ability to showcase its strengths, build a strong relationship with the recruit, and demonstrate a clear vision for his future development. With the Gators’ rich tradition of producing top-notch defensive talent, Ford may view UF as an ideal destination to hone his skills and achieve his goals.
In the coming months, the recruiting landscape will continue to evolve, and Ford’s decision will be influenced by various factors. As the Florida Gators vie for his signature, they will need to leverage their strengths, showcase their commitment to excellence, and demonstrate a clear plan for Ford’s growth and development.
Ultimately, the addition of KJ Ford would be a significant boon for the Florida Gators, providing a major boost to their recruiting efforts and bolstering their defensive line with a talented and athletic edge rusher. As the Gators continue to pursue Ford, they will be fueled by a sense of optimism and anticipation, knowing that landing this elite recruit would be a game-changer for their program.
