Will Harris Taunts Gators Following Jaelen Waters’ Commitment

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Less than a month after leaving the Florida Gators to join the rival Miami Hurricanes, secondary coach Will Harris sparked controversy on social media following the commitment of Jaelen Waters, a former Gators pledge. Waters, a composite top 200 recruit, decommitted from Florida shortly after Harris’ departure, leading many to speculate on the timing of his commitment to Miami.

Harris took to X (formerly Twitter) to post a message featuring Napier’s signature commitment emoji, with a creative twist that included a chess pawn. This seemingly indirect jab did not go unnoticed by the Gators staff. Associate head coach Jabbar Juluke responded with emojis of his own, highlighting the renewed rivalry between the two programs.

The Florida-Miami football rivalry has been reignited after the teams met for the first time in five years last season. The upcoming rematch scheduled for Week Four in Miami Gardens adds an extra layer of intensity, particularly with Harris now on the opposite sideline. “For sure…you know there is going to be smack talk and stuff like that,” said senior cornerback Devin Moore. “It’s all love with coach Harris, but at the end of the day, it is a business.”

Although the rivalry did not lack animosity, Harris’ social media posts are expected to provide additional motivation for the Gators, who are eager to avenge their loss to Miami last season.

In other Gators news, the football team held its second practice of spring camp on Saturday with members of the media in attendance. Safety Jamari Lyons, who had been sidelined with an ankle injury, was observed practicing in a non-contact jersey, while receiver Aidan Mizell was also seen working out in the weight room after returning from injury.

Florida’s offensive line is preparing for the upcoming season with four returning starters, including rising star Bryce Lovett, who has been impressing coaches and teammates alike. “Bryce is one of the most special athletes I’ve been around, especially as an offensive lineman,” said starting offensive lineman Jake Slaughter. “He can play all five positions and has great movement skills.”

Redshirt freshman Marcus Mascoll has also moved to center, working closely with fellow player Jason Zandamela-Popa to improve the team’s depth in that position.

In recruitment news, Jayden Woods, a freshman edge rusher who recently flipped his commitment from Penn State, has made headlines during spring camp. Woods recorded an impressive 18.5 sacks during high school and is already catching the attention of coaches and players alike. “This Jayden Woods guy has stood out,” head coach Billy Napier commented. “I’m really pleased.”

The Gators are preparing for two road games against ranked opponents next week, facing the 15-0 Florida State Seminoles and the 14-0 Tennessee Volunteers. As Florida seeks to build momentum following a recent two-game losing streak, strong individual performances from players like Bobby Boser and Brody Donay will be critical.

On a positive note for the team, sophomore quarterback DJ Lagway announced he is donating NIL money to women’s sports at the University of Florida in honor of International Women’s Day. The donation, reportedly in the six figures, will support the volleyball, gymnastics, women’s basketball, and softball programs. Lagway remarked on the dedication and effort of female athletes, stating he is inspired to work harder daily.

As the spring practices continue, the Gators are focused on preparing for a competitive season while navigating the challenges of injuries and high expectations within their programs.