The Florida Gators are intensifying their pursuit of top-tier talent for the 2026 recruiting class, with recent developments highlighting their efforts to secure elite defensive back prospects.
Gregory Smith III: A Late-Rising Prospect
One notable recruit gaining attention is Gregory Smith III, a 6-foot-4, 200-pound defensive back from Riverview, Florida. After transitioning from quarterback to safety during his senior year at Sumner High School, Smith showcased his versatility and playmaking ability. In his inaugural season on defense, he recorded 29 tackles, four pass breakups, one interception, and a fumble recovery. His performance has led to a surge in his recruitment, with Florida among the programs vying for his commitment. Smith recently included the Gators in his top six, alongside Ole Miss, Toledo, USF, Vanderbilt, and Virginia, and has set December 13 as his commitment date .
Jaelen Waters: A Flip from Florida State
Another significant addition to Florida’s 2026 defensive back class is Jaelen Waters, a 6-foot-2, 170-pound cornerback from Seffner, Florida. Initially committed to Florida State, Waters flipped to the Gators after a change of heart. Ranked as the 191st overall prospect in the 2026 class, Waters brings length and athleticism to the secondary. His commitment adds depth to Florida’s defensive backfield and strengthens their recruiting efforts in the state .
Bralan Womack: A Top Safety Target
Florida is also in contention for Bralan Womack, a four-star safety from the 2026 class. Standing as the second-highest-ranked defensive back in the class and the 24th overall prospect, Womack has included Florida in his list of finalists, alongside Texas A&M, Auburn, and Ohio State. Securing Womack would bolster the Gators’ defensive backfield and provide a significant boost to their recruiting efforts in the SEC .
Looking Ahead
With the addition of these prospects, Florida is positioning itself to strengthen its secondary for the 2026 season. The Gators’ focus on in-state talent underscores their commitment to building a roster that reflects the state’s rich football tradition. As the recruiting cycle progresses, all eyes will be on these developments to see how Florida’s defensive backfield takes shape.
