Aaron Gates preparing to be the comeback story of the year for the Gators

One of the few disappointments that occurred during Florida's four-game winning streak to close out 2024 was the injury to Aaron Gates during the Ole Miss game. Gates tore his ACL, and it was unclear heading into the offseason whether he would be ready to start the 2025 campaign.

While most eyes were on DJ Lagway during Florida's practice yesterday, it was noted that Gates was also out on the field.

Aaron Gates is hoping to be ready for the season opener

Zach Abolverdi of Gators Online tweeted a quick video that featured Gates on the field not only in a regular jersey (compared to a non-contact one) but also without a brace on his knee.

Gates is expected to challenge Sharif Denson and Josiah Davis for the STAR/Nickel position in 2025.

Last year, Gates took 322 snaps and was primarily a rotation player until he was elevated to starter status during the back half of the season.

His most notable game last year was against Georgia, when he intercepted a pass from Carson Beck. He also had a pass breakup against Kentucky and recorded eight total tackles against Texas.

Gates was targeted 29 times, giving up 20 receptions for 174 total yards, but no touchdowns on the season.

It was the first real action Gates had as a Gator after he redshirted the 2023 season. Part of what makes his story to this point an "underdog" story is that he also tore his ACL during his senior year of high school.

Gates was a tweener four-star/three-star prospect out of Sharpsburg, GA, and was a member of the class of 2023. He first committed to Florida in August of 2021 when Dan Mullen was still in town. After Mullen was fired, Billy Napier was able to hang onto Gates and keep his commitment.

If Gates can continue to progress and is actually healthy, it should provide some much-needed depth in 2025 at the STAR position.