GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA: Justin Williams, a 4-star athlete from Buchholz High School, has received an official scholarship offer from the University of Florida of the Southeastern Conference (SEC). The versatile playmaker, who ranks as the 12th-best athlete nationally and the 24th overall prospect in Florida according to 247Sports 2025, adds the Gators to his growing list of suitors.
Player Profile:
• ATH | Gainesville, FL | 5’11”, 190 lbs
• 4-star, No. 12 ATH – 247Sports 2025
• 1,473 receiving yards, 1,023 rushing yards in 2023 – MaxPreps
Recruitment Context:
The offer, extended June 14, 2024, positions Florida alongside 11 other Power 4 programs, including Florida State and Ole Miss. Williams confirmed an official visit to Tallahassee on June 20, with additional visits expected this summer.
Direct Quote:
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to potentially play for my hometown team,” Williams told Prospect Radar. “Growing up in Gainesville, I’ve always had a connection to the Gators, but I’m keeping all my options open.”
🏈 Historic Production Fuels Recruitment Surge
Williams’ 2023 campaign cemented his status as a unique talent in Florida high school football. The 4-star athlete became the first player since Devin Hester to record 1,000+ rushing and receiving yards in a single season, showcasing versatility that aligns with modern college football schemes.
Key Metrics:
- Led Class 6A in receiving yards (1,473)
- Added 1,023 rushing yards in 7 games at RB
- Verified 4.43 40-yard dash speed
🏈 Florida’s Strategic Advantage
The Gators leverage proximity to Buchholz High, where four alumni currently play for Florida. Williams’ hybrid skill set fits Billy Napier’s emphasis on multipositional playmakers, a trend highlighted in Elite Dozen: Five-Star Recruits Headline 2026 Football Rankings.
Competition:
- Florida State: June 20 official visit booked
- Kentucky: Multiple in-home visits since April
- Ole Miss: Offered May 30 after camp evaluation
🏈 Decision Timeline & Implications
Williams plans to narrow his list by mid-July and commit before his senior season at Buchholz, which begins August 23. The Gators’ 2025 class, currently ranked 15th nationally, could gain critical momentum with his addition.
