Hansen’s Contributions To Florida Football

Hayden Hansen’s contributions are great as a player, but his influence as a teammate on-and-off the field is even greater.

Who is Hayden Hansen?

Hansen is going into his third season as a Florida Gator. In his first two seasons, he recorded 27 receptions for 357 yards and three touchdowns. He went to high school in Weatherford, Texas, where he was a multi-sport athlete.

He played basketball and football, but committed to UF for football in 2022. He redshirted his freshman season, seeing no on-field action. Initially, Hansen committed to the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns in Aug. 2021, but decommitted once Napier decided he was going to join Florida’s program. Hansen’s talents also translate to the classroom, earing SEC first-year academic honor roll and SEC fall academic honor roll twice.

Billy Napier says that Hayden Hansen is one of the hardest workers on the team and noted the way he attacks areas of development.

“I’m really proud of Hayden. He’s one of the best workers we have.”

If you’ve listened to Hayden talk on Locked On Gators, you know the kind of…

— Brandon Olsen (@WNS_Brandon) March 13, 2025

What To Expect in Spring Training

Spring training is finally underway, and the new-look Gators are earning their first reps together. Hansen’s training looks a little different this year, spending more time with the wide receivers to improve different parts of his game.

“Route running, speed out of the stance is the last part of my game I need to solidify,” said Hansen. “That’s what I’m out to prove this season.”

Hansen has spent a lot of time with coach Chad Lucas and five-star freshman Dallas Wilson.

“Dallas Wilson is a great player. We all go out there and work,” said Hansen. Hansen is looking to take another leap in his third season and become a more versatile threat on the field.

“Complete freak. He’s going to be a great player.”#Gators TE Hayden Hansen on freshman WR Dallas Wilson, who Hansen says he’s been working with the improve his route-running this offseason.

— Zach Goodall (@zach_goodall) March 11, 2025

Hansen’s Impact

Hansen takes pride in his individual performance, but he always puts the team first. He gives a lot of credit to Tight Ends Coach Russ Callaway for helping him develop into a great player.

“I owe a lot to him. He got me up to speed extremely quick when I needed to provide for the team,” said Hansen.

Hansen’s leadership and unselfishness help him support the team in various ways, making his presence alone a plus. While he doesn’t touch the ball as much as some of the other guys, his primary objective is being a team player.