The Florida Gators are expected to hire Georgia State defensive coordinator Deron Wilson as their defensive backs coach, multiple sources have confirmed with Gator Country. Wilson worked at UF back in 2022 as a quality control coach, primarily working with the cornerbacks. Wilson’s addition comes after former Gators’ defensive backs coach Will Harris took a similar job with in-state rival Miami Hurricanes.
Less than a month ago, Wilson took the defensive coordinator position at Georgia State after serving as a secondary coach with Arkansas for two seasons. Wilson’s first season with Arkansas was a success as the Hogs’ secondary was arguably the most improved unit on the team in 2023. The Razorbacks ranked fourth in the SEC in passing yards allowed per game with 202.8 yards, the program’s best effort since 2011 when they allowed 195.2 yards per game. Arkansas’ 12 interceptions ranked third in the league and the team’s four pick-sixes matched five other teams to lead all of FBS. The Hogs’ defense scored five total touchdowns on the season, including Jaylon Braxton’s fumble return for a score in the win at Florida. Braxton earned Freshman All-SEC honors after posting 20 tackles and a team-best eight pass breakups under Wilson’s guidance.
2024 wasn’t so kind for the Razorbacks secondary as they allowed 246.9 passing yards per game, ranking 111th in the country in passing yards allowed and last in the SEC.
Prior to joining UF’s staff in 2022, Wilson served as the defensive coordinator at McNeese (2020-21). He was named the Cowboys’ interim defensive coordinator a week prior to the spring season opener against Tarleton State. The Pokes played seven games in the spring of 2021 following the canceled 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Wilson’s secondary improved during the spring season, allowing 35 fewer yards passing compared to 2019. The defense improved even more during the Cowboys’ fall 2021 season, giving up fewer points per game, rushing yards per game, passing yards per game and points per game.
Wilson coached at UTSA for four seasons, spending the final two as the Roadrunners’ cornerbacks coach after starting as a graduate assistant.
In total, the 34 year old has eight years of collegiate coaching experience.