Florida Gators Launch Full-Court Press to Keep Star Running Back Jadan Baugh

Florida’s new coaching staff is making an urgent push to keep a key player. Head coach Jon Sumrall is leading the effort to retain star running back Jadan Baugh. He will be joined by new offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner and running backs coach Chris Foster for a critical meeting.

This high-level delegation is traveling to meet Baugh on Wednesday. According to CBS Sports, the meeting is set for Atlanta, Baugh’s hometown. The goal is to convince the All-SEC rusher to remain a Gator.

Baugh is the Clear Centerpiece of Sumrall’s Early Vision

Sumrall has not been shy about his admiration for Baugh. He specifically highlighted the running back during his introductory press conference. Sumrall recalled watching Baugh’s historic performance against Florida State.

“He’s extremely high priority,” Sumrall stated on a recent Zoom call. The coach called Baugh a proven, frontline SEC player. His pitch began publicly by asking if he could give the ball to “No. 13” even more.

Baugh’s 2025 season justifies this focused effort. The sophomore rushed for 1,170 yards and eight touchdowns. He also added 210 receiving yards and two more scores through the air.

He became the first Gator in a decade to reach 1,000 rushing yards in a season. His 266-yard game against Florida State was the second-best single-game performance in program history. Only NFL legend Emmitt Smith has posted a higher total.

Retaining Talent is Paramount for New Era’s Success

The meeting is a direct action to stop talent from leaving via the transfer portal. Multiple key players, including quarterback DJ Lagway, are expected to explore transfers. Keeping a player of Baugh’s caliber is seen as essential for a successful transition.

Baugh provided rare consistency for Florida’s offense this past season. He often single-handedly kept the team competitive in games. His return would give the new offensive staff a proven, dynamic weapon from day one.

While the running back position has evolved, a true star still changes a team’s identity. Securing Baugh would send a strong message about the new regime’s intent. It would provide immediate stability and a focal point for the 2026 campaign.

The Florida Gators are pulling out all the stops to ensure Jadan Baugh remains their offensive centerpiece. This high-stakes meeting could define the early trajectory of the Jon Sumrall era. Keeping their star running back is the clear and urgent priority in Gainesville.

Info at your fingertips

Who is Jadan Baugh?

Jadan Baugh is the star running back for the Florida Gators. He rushed for over 1,170 yards this past season. He earned All-SEC honors for his performance.

Why is he considering leaving Florida?

The head coach who recruited him, Billy Napier, is no longer with the program. Major coaching changes often lead players to enter the transfer portal. The new staff is actively working to convince him to stay.

What did he do against Florida State?

Baugh rushed for 266 yards in the rivalry win over Florida State. That performance is the second-most rushing yards in a single game in Gators history. Only Pro Football Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith has more.

Who is going to the meeting with him?

New head coach Jon Sumrall is leading the group. He is being joined by new offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner and new running backs coach Chris Foster. This shows the entire offensive leadership is invested.

When does the transfer portal open?

The college football transfer portal opens next on January 2. Many players, including several Gators, are expected to enter at that time. Florida hopes to secure Baugh’s commitment before then.