Image Credit: Mallory Peak, UAA
What once appeared to be a sure-fire commitment nearly took a turn this week, but in the end, the Florida Gators added the latest member of their Class of 2026. Four-star EDGE KJ Ford (Duncanville, TX) pledged to the program Friday evening, becoming the third top 100 prospect the Gators have added this cycle.
Ford (6-foot-4, 245 pounds) chose Florida over Ohio State, Texas A&M and USC. Though Alabama had not initially been listed among his finalists, the Crimson Tide made a late push for his services with many believing he would not wind up with the Gators as originally expected.
Head coach Billy Napier being on Ford early and having a detailed plan for how he would contribute across his first two years with the program was a key factor to UF’s victory in this recruitment, a source told Only Gators.
Ranked No. 98 overall by 247Sports, Ford is considered the nation’s 11th-best EDGE. He is also listed No. 116 overall (No. 15 EDGE) in the 247Sports Composite.
Florida has steadily grown its class this summer adding 16 of its 17 commitments since June 1. The Gators are now ranked No. 15 in the 247Sports Composite team rankings with all but two of the 14 teams ahead of UF holding larger classes (No. 1 USC has 31 players committed). Florida’s average prospect ranking is ninth, per 247Sports.