The only real surprise on Early Signing Day for the Florida Gators is that there were so few surprises. The Gators had virtually everyone who was verbally committed sign on the dotted line to come to Gainesville for the 2026 season.
But the Gators had a little bit of work to do to close out the class, and on Thursday, they were able to lock down one of the final pieces for the class.
CJ Hester signs with Florida
Four-star defensive back CJ Hester has officially signed with the Gators. This wasn't unexpected after Hester didn't sign on Wednesday, but it is always nice to officially wrap things up with a player.
ESPN lists Hester as a four-star while Rivals and 247 both list him as a three-star. His aggregate rating on Rivals, however, still has him as a four-star.
Hester originally committed to the Gators on July 3rd after he had taken official visits to Iowa, Georgia, Syracuse, and Auburn. He also had interest from Miami, and Missouri had offered him back in August.
When we profiled Hester back in July, we said:
"The top 250 player is seen making strong tackles, fielding interceptions, disrupting plays by his opponents, and defending the end zone with his speed and ability to get his hands on the ball. His wingspan expands out to 6'5"."
Hester gives the Gators 19 commits for its class of 2026. Florida also flipped LSU commit Dylan Purter on Thursday to come to Gainesville.
While Florida's class of 2026 isn't an "elite" class, there are enough pieces for Jon Sumrall to work with. What's impressive is that Florida was able to keep this class together at all despite Billy Napier being fired, and the only verbal commit to flip on signing day was running back Carsyn Baker.
As it stands, there are two more commits Florida still needs to get a signature from. Safety Kaiden Hall is expected to sign on Friday, given that it will be his birthday. Tight end Kekua Aumua, who is from Hawaii, is getting a late push from Washington.