GAINESVILLE, FL: According to CAMPUS SPORTS, five under-the-radar Florida Gators 2025 players are positioned for breakout performances this season. These underappreciated athletes span both sides of the ball and carry critical roles in Florida’s quest for SEC resurgence.
Under-the-Radar Florida Gators 2025 Offensive Stars
DJ Lagway leads the offensive breakout candidates as the former No. 1 quarterback recruit. Moreover, his 2024 statistics showcase elite deep-ball ability, leading Power Four QBs with an 8.8% big-time throw rate. Additionally, Lagway posted a 95.6 deep-passing grade, ranking third in college football.
However, the young quarterback needs refinement in shorter throws, grading just 59.7 on non-deep attempts. Nevertheless, his elite arm strength, poise, and aggressiveness project well for Florida’s expected shift to a vertical passing game.
Jake Slaughter anchors the offensive line as the top returning center in the Power Four. Furthermore, he earned 80.0+ PFF grades in both pass protection and run blocking. Since 2023, Slaughter has maintained an 85.8 PFF grade, ranking second only to Jackson Powers-Johnson among centers.
Eugene Wilson III returns from knee and hip surgeries that sidelined him for most of 2024. Previously, his freshman campaign produced an 81.5 PFF receiving grade with 480 yards after catch. Consequently, Wilson forced 18 missed tackles and is already drawing attention in FanDuel NCAAF player trends.
Defensive Anchors Ready for Breakout Seasons
Tyreak Sapp transitioned from defensive tackle to edge defender with remarkable success. Subsequently, he earned a 90.4 PFF grade in 2024, ranking 10th among edge defenders nationally. His run-defense grade of 88.7 placed fourth among all FBS edge players.
The 6’2″ defender tied for fourth in tackles for loss or no gain while posting an 82.2 pass-rush grade. Therefore, Sapp’s leverage, strength, and hand usage make him a complete edge threat.
Caleb Banks dominated as an interior defender, ranking No. 11 nationally per PFF. Over two seasons, he accumulated 53 pressures with a 12.7% pressure rate. His 6’5″ frame with long arms has attracted NFL scouts for the 2026 draft.
Depth Concerns Could Impact Under-the-Radar Florida Gaters 2025 Success
Despite the talent, depth issues loom for several positions. Harrison Bailey remains untested as Lagway’s primary backup at quarterback. On the defensive line, newcomer Brendan Bett becomes critical if Banks suffers injury.
Safety depth presents another concern with true freshman Drake Stubbs potentially one injury away from starting. Similarly, tight end Amir Jackson may see expanded roles in two-TE sets due to limited depth.
These five players’ development and health will directly determine Florida’s ability to compete in the challenging SEC landscape. For more coverage of Florida football recruiting and player updates, visit Prospect-Radar.com.
