Social media lights up after KJ Ford joins the Gators

With 50 days to go until the start of the 2025 college football season, there is more excitement for the Gator Nation as the "Gator boys stay(ed) hot" on the recruitment trail. In one of the most anticipated announcements of the summer, KJ Ford, the four-star EDGE from Duncanville High School in Texas and one of the top prospects in the class of 2026, officially gave his commitment to the University of Florida on Friday night, and social media was buzzing quickly.

Ford's decision was down to Alabama, Ohio State, and Texas A&M, all schools that are big competitors against Florida. And by signing Ford, the Gators have made a statement on the lengths to which they'll go to get the guys they want on the field.

Billy Napier was all smiles posting his usual sunglasses emoji on X following Ford's announcement. Ford's commitment marks the 17th commitment Napier has received from the class of 2026.

Under Napier's X post were all positive comments. There were congratulatory comments, comments that state the newest Gator popular phrase, "Gator boys stay hot," fans telling Napier great job, keep doing your thing, and more.

As Napier continues to lock down more and more commitments, he is regaining the trust of Gator nation. Yes, he will still have to prove on the field that the Gators have what it takes to be a winning program that fans can trust to stay alive into the postseason, but for now, Napier and the Gators are winning off the field with their recruitment this offseason.

Dylan Olive of Sports Illustrated and University of Graduate posted Ford's stats on X, including being a top 120 composite recruit, top 100 on 247sports, only lost two games in two years at Duncanville, and in 2025 he had 57 tackles (16 TFL), 7 sacks, 1 FF, 1 FR, and 15 hurries as a junior.

Comments under the post inlcude "KJ is a beast and has an explosive first step! Go Gators!" Others calling Ford's commitment a "massive win."

Corey Bender of GatorsOnline in a post on X described Ford as having an "explosive first step, flexible frame, and high motor," saying Florida had to get Ford and that there was no other option.

David Waters of Gators breakdown echoed many others in calling Ford's signing a "Big recruiting win for Florida."

Former Florida Gator, National and SEC Champion from 2006, and former Denver Bronco, Steven Harris took to social media with his excitement, saying "Go Gators" preceeded by eyes and a smile emoji.