The key components of the Gators offense for 2026 are nearly complete with the signing of quarterback Aaron Philo. This announcement comes hours after running back Jadan Baugh agreed on a deal to stay with the Gators for the 2026 season.
Philo's pledge to Florida isn't a major shock. He has been linked to the Gators ever since he made the announcement that he would enter the transfer portal. The move reunites him with Gators offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner, who recruited Philo at Georgia Tech. It's the second Yellow Jacket in as many days to commit to Florida, after wide receiver Bailey Stockton made his pledge.
Home🐊 pic.twitter.com/CGKqJLtfcI
— Aaron Philo † (@PhiloAaron) January 6, 2026
Philo appeared in six games over the past two seasons with the Yellow Jackets and has three years of eligibility remaining. He jumped on the scene as a true freshman in 2024 to lead Georgia Tech to a 30-29 win over N.C. State when he threw for 265 yards and rushed for 57 yards and a touchdown.
Last year Philo spent the majority of his time behind Heisman contender Haynes King, but managed to start a game against Gardner-Webb and threw for 373 yards. Before entering the portal, Philo was expected to be the starter at Georgia Tech for the 2026 season.
Gators offense appears set for next season
Philo's signing and Baugh's announcement earlier in the day are the final major pieces of the puzzle for the Gators offense. Wide receivers Dallas Wilson and Vernell Brown announced their return earlier, giving Philo a primary running back and two top receiving targets.
Despite Philo's limited experience, he was rated as the ninth-best quarterback available in the transfer portal based on his tremendous upside.
Things are starting to come together for Jon Sumrall and his vision for the 2026 Gators. There is a lot of work that has to be done in the transfer portal to round out the roster, but many of the moves he's made thus far have Gator fans feeling optimistic about the future.
The transfer portal window opened on January 2 and remains open through January 16. Unlike previous seasons there's no spring window, so all business must be taken care of in the next 10 days.