The Florida Gators picked up their 16th commitment from the Class of 2026 on Thursday afternoon from an instate prospect.
Defensive back CJ Hester (6-1, 185, Cocoa, FL. High) committed to the Gators over Iowa and Georgia on Thursday afternoon.
When Hester visited Gainesville in June for his official visit, he was able to meet with everyone and that stood out to him.
“Probably the positional meetings,” he said on his favorite part of the visit. “They broke down my strength and how I would fit into the defense. Also, spending time with Lagonza Heyward, he was telling me that they’re building something at Florida.”
Defensive backs coach Deron Wilson also broke down with Hester what the Gators liked about him during that official visit.
“He likes that I’m big and fast,” Hester said on Deron Wilson’s message to him. “He likes that I can track the ball and that I attack the ball. He likes that I can be a big outside corner for them.”
Hester has also shined in track as he ran a 10.97 in the 100 meters during his sophomore season.
As a junior on the football field, Hester accounted for 72 tackles and 3 interceptions as he led his team to the 2A championship.
Hester is the third defensive back in the class as he joins CJ Bronaugh and Kaiden Hall as commits.