The Florida Gators have flipped Top 100 Edge prospect Jayden Woods from Penn State, marking another major recruiting victory for their program.
The addition of Shawnee (KS) Mill Valley standout Woods, ranked No. 75 overall and the No. 7 Edge in the 2025 class by 247Sports, follows an official visit to Gainesville this past weekend that flew under the radar until Sunday. Woods is the latest highlight in the Gators’ streak of high-profile flips.
Florida had been actively searching for a stand-up edge rusher and prioritized Woods, even with a commitment from four-star Jalen Wiggins, who is seen as more of a traditional hand-in-the-dirt player. Woods shared his perspective earlier in the year, explaining that Florida envisions him as a JACK linebacker.
“Coach Peterson talked to me about the JACK role and how it fits into the defense. He’s really genuine, and I like talking to him,” Woods said, reflecting on his spring visit.
The Gators’ 2025 class now boasts 20 verbal commitments, including several four-star talents: Orlando (Fla.) Jones wide receiver Vernell Brown III, Miami (Fla.) Booker T. Washington cornerback Ben Hanks Jr., and linebacker Ty Jackson from Loxahatchee (Fla.) Seminole Ridge. Additional commits include three-star quarterback Tramell Jones, running back Byron Louis, defensive lineman Stephon Shivers, and kicker Evan Noel, among others.
This flip solidifies Florida’s aggressive recruiting momentum as they continue to build a competitive roster for the future.