Florida Football’s Defensive Secondary Depth Entering ’25 season

The old sports cliche that offense wins games and defense wins championships looks to be an idea that the Florida Gators are buying into.

Situations such as getting stops on third and fourth down, holding opponents to field goals in the redzone, and forcing turnovers all over the field would allow the Gators to gain extra possessions and put the ball in the hands of quarterback DJ Lagway.

During the 2023 season the Gators only had three total interceptions on the year. Improving on that number during the 2024 season was Bryce Thornton, who led the team with three interceptions and the Gators defense had 14 total.

Bryce Thornton

Furthermore, when talking to the media about the upcoming season Junior Bryce Thornton stated “I’m just trying to build on what we did last year, especially towards the end.” Thornton ended the season playing his best football. In the game against No. 9 ranked Ole Miss, Thornton led the team in tackles (14) on top of his two interceptions. Against Florida State he had seven tackles and a forced fumble.

When talking about how his experience can help the younger players coming in, he added “It feels crazy being the old guy, but it’s fun though, helping the young people because I had people doing the same thing for me. I’m just trying to help them as much as I can.”

BRYCE THORNTON CALLED GAME!!!

DOWN GOES #9 OLE MISS!!!

We’re even for 2008 now. pic.twitter.com/j2EoN5LBc0

— InAllKindsOfWeather.com (@AllKindsWeather) November 23, 2024

Cormani McClain

Transferring in from Colorado, McClain was the top-rated defensive back in the 2023 class. In his first season with Florida, reports about immaturity and showing up late held McClain back and contributed to keeping him off the field.

However, McClain has impressed so far in spring practices.  In his press conference coach Billy Napier was asked about year two players who have taken the biggest leap. The first name he said was Cormani McClain.

During his press conference, Bryce Thornton spoke on the progress that McClain has made so far with the team. “We always knew he had it in him, he’s going to have a great season this year.” Thornton said.

The reaction for a @CormaniMcClain2 pick-six during his first game in-action this season. @InsideTheGators pic.twitter.com/5FRl884KwC

— Alyssa Britton-Harr (@abrittonharr) October 20, 2024

Incoming Freshmen

After losing multiple players through either the draft or the transfer portal, Billy Napier focused on recruiting young talented defensive backs to develop.

During his press conference, Thornton said “Coming back for Spring I’ve been really excited to just play with all the new guys.”

When asked about the progress freshman Drake Stubbs and Lagonza Hayward have made, Thornton said “I love them, they’re going to be some great kids. Coming in as a freshman, coming early, watching film, they love the game you can tell just from them being out there. I’m glad to work with them two.”

Additionally, four-star corner J’vari Flowers committed to Florida earlier this week, adding more depth to a strong incoming freshmen class.