In a surprising twist, the Florida Gators are poised to secure a notable addition to their coaching staff. But will this move ruffle some feathers in the football world?
According to reports, the Gators' new head coach, Jon Sumrall, is expected to hire Brandon Harris, the defensive backs coach from the University of Central Florida (UCF). This news comes as a potential blow to Florida State, who were initially rumored to be hiring Harris as their cornerbacks coach.
Harris has been making waves in the coaching scene since joining UCF in 2025, contributing to the team's impressive 25th national ranking in pass defense this season. His coaching journey began at Florida International University (FIU) in 2019 as a graduate assistant, followed by a stint as a defensive assistant at Florida State in 2020. He then returned to FIU to coach cornerbacks before making his move to UCF.
A former NFL player himself, Harris was a standout cornerback at the University of Miami from 2008 to 2010 and was drafted in the second round of the 2011 NFL Draft. He played for six seasons with the Houston, Tennessee, and Miami teams, leaving a lasting impression on the league.
The 35-year-old coach has deep Florida roots, having attended Booker T. Washington High School in Miami, where he was named the Florida Gatorade Player of the Year in 2007. His father, Tim Harris Sr., is a high school coaching legend, and his older brother, Treon Harris, played quarterback for the Gators from 2014 to 2015.
Harris is the fifth assistant coach to reportedly join Sumrall's staff, alongside OC Buster Faulkner, DC Brad White, defensive line coach Gerald Chatman, and offensive line coach Phil Trautwein.
As the Gators continue to build their coaching roster, the team is also in talks with veteran SEC assistant coach Derrick Nix for the running backs position. Nix's experience at Auburn and potential interest from Alabama and Ole Miss add an intriguing layer to the Gators' recruitment strategy.
And here's where it gets even more intriguing: For just $1, you can join the Gators Online community and gain exclusive access to passionate discussions and insights from dedicated Florida fans. Our team of experienced journalists delivers in-depth recruiting analysis and breaking news on UF sports, ensuring you're always in the know.
Stay tuned as the Gators' coaching staff takes shape, and feel free to share your thoughts on this latest development. Is Harris the right fit for the Gators? What impact will this have on Florida State's plans? Join the conversation and let your voice be heard!
