Florida Gators Job Rises to Elite Tier Status

Florida Gators head coach Billy Napier enters the 2025 SEC Media Days with heightened expectations after leading the team to a four-game winning streak and their first winning season since 2020, including significant victories over top-25 teams. Quarterback DJ Lagway has become a Heisman candidate, raising hopes that Florida could contend for a playoff spot this season. The Gators return a strong core of starters on both sides of the ball, and Napier has emphasized the team's preparation and commitment to improvement. While Napier remains under some national scrutiny regarding job security, his hot seat rating has improved over the previous season. CBS Sports continues to rank Florida's coaching job in the 'Elite Tier,' ahead of in-state rivals Miami and Florida State, underscoring the program's resources and expectations. As a result, Florida is viewed as a potential top-25, and possibly top-5, team for the 2025 season.