Billy Napier’s cache wasn’t enough for his Florida Gators to secure important commitment
When it comes to recruiting, the Florida Gators have been working really hard to make the 2026 recruiting class a special one.
Head coach Billy Napier is getting a lot of players scheduled to visit over the course of the offseason, including some high-profile targets that rank in the top two of their position groups. Getting the recruiting class in a great spot is going to be huge for Napier this summer, especially with the emergence of DJ Lagway.
Florida Gators lose out on recruit with connections to Billy Napier
The Gators knew that one of their targets had a commitment setup on the final day of February with three-start interior offensive lineman Bear McWhorter out of Cass (Georgia). Unfortunately, the Gators lost out on him, as he announced his commitment to the University of Michigan Wolverines.
It was disappointing for the Gators, especially since their offensive linemen were all older. What makes this more disappointing is Napier’s relationship with the family.
Back in his playing days at Furman, Napier played with McWhorter’s dad, which theoretically would have given the Gators a leg up.
McWhorter even said this about the Gators, which focused on how much relationships will factor into his decision.
“I’ll only visit where I commit to. Relationships are a huge one for me in my decision. Getting around the players, strength and support staffs and coaches are all equally as important. I’m looking for the best group of people to surround myself with. I trust coach Napier big-time. I have known him for a long time. My dad played college ball with him at Furman.”
This is a downer for the Gators in trying to help the 2026 recruiting class, as they currently have just two players committed thus far.
