The University of Florida football program has a rich history filled with iconic players who impacted college football far beyond the city of Gainesville. Below are the ten best Gators football players in the program’s history, celebrated for their achievements and contributions to the team’s legacy.
TOP 10 FLORIDA GATORS FOOTBALL PLAYERS OF ALL TIME:
1. Tim Tebow (Quarterback, 2006–2009)
Arguably the most famous Gator of all time, Tim Tebow is synonymous with Florida football success. A two-time national champion (2006, 2008) and the first sophomore to win the Heisman Trophy in 2007, Tebow set numerous records, including the SEC’s all-time touchdown responsibility record. Known for his leadership and fiery passion, his dual-threat ability made him a nightmare for defenses and an inspirational figure for fans.
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2. Steve Spurrier (Quarterback, 1964–1966)
Before Spurrier was famous enough to be known nationwide a simply the “Head Ball Coach,” he was an iconic athlete for the Gators. He made one of the most memorable plays in team history vs Auburn in 1966. With supreme confidence, Spurrier, who played quarterback, opted to kick a field goal late in the fourth quarter. His successful attempt gave Florida a 30-27 victory. That same season, he became the first player in UF history to win the coveted Heisman Trophy. Known for his poise and pinpoint accuracy, Spurrier led the Gators to some of their most significant wins of the era. His impact on the program extended beyond his playing days, as he later returned to coach Florida to six SEC titles and a national championship in 1996.
3. Danny Wuerffel (Quarterback, 1993–1996)
Prior to the Tebow era, another quarterback who shined on and off the field at UF was Danny Wuerffel. Nearly 30 years after his career in Gainesville, Weuffel is still among the most beloved and respected leaders in UF history. His impressive record includes no losses against Peyton Manning. In 1996, after a a series of unexpected losses by other top-ranked teams allowed the Gators to slip into the Sugar Bowl, Wuerffel got a rematch against FSU, which had upset the Gators in the regular season finale. Wuerffel took advantage of the second change against an injury-plagued FSU team and propelled the Gators to a 52-20 blowout win to earn the Gators their first national championship. He also won the Heisman Trophy that same year. Wuerffel was known for his precision in Spurrier’s “Fun ‘n’ Gun” offense and still holds numerous school and SEC records for passing efficiency and touchdowns.
4. Emmitt Smith (Running Back, 1987–1989)
A future NFL Hall of Famer, Emmitt Smith was a dominant force during his time at Florida. Despite playing for a struggling team, he broke multiple school and SEC rushing records, including the single-season rushing mark as a freshman. He finished his college career with 3,928 rushing yards and remains a legend for his vision, power, and durability.
5. Jack Youngblood (Defensive End, 1968–1970)
One of the greatest defensive players in Florida history, Jack Youngblood was a ferocious pass rusher who earned All-American honors in 1970. Known for his relentless motor and toughness, Youngblood went on to have a Hall of Fame NFL career but remains beloved in Gainesville for his dominance on the defensive line.
6. Wilber Marshall (Linebacker, 1980–1983)
Wilber Marshall is widely regarded as one of the best defensive players in college football history. A two-time consensus All-American, he was a dominant force as a linebacker, known for his speed, power, and instincts. His 343 career tackles rank among the best in Florida history, and his performances set the standard for future Gator linebackers.
7. Percy Harvin (Wide Receiver, 2006–2008)
Percy Harvin was the ultimate offensive weapon for the Gators during their national championship runs in 2006 and 2008. A dynamic receiver and runner, his game-breaking speed and versatility made him a matchup nightmare. His ability to score from anywhere on the field earned him numerous accolades, and he remains one of the most electrifying players in program history.
8. Carlos Alvarez (Wide Receiver, 1969–1971)
Carlos Alvarez, nicknamed “The Cuban Comet,” was a record-setting receiver for the Gators. In 1969, he set an SEC record with 1,329 receiving yards, a mark that stood for decades. His career total of 2,563 receiving yards still ranks among the best in Florida history. Alvarez’s precise route running and big-play ability made him a favorite target and a Florida legend.
9. Jacquez Green (Wide Receiver, 1995–1997)
Jacquez Green was a dynamic playmaker for the University of Florida during the mid-1990s. A key contributor in Steve Spurrier’s high-powered “Fun ‘n’ Gun” offense, Green was known for his exceptional speed and ability to stretch defenses. In 1997, he earned All-SEC honors after recording 1,024 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. His versatility also shone on special teams, where he was a dangerous punt returner, finishing his career with three punt return touchdowns. A vital part of Florida’s 1996 national championship team, Green remains one of the most explosive receivers in Gators history.
10. Jevon Kearse (Defensive End/Linebacker, 1995–1998)
Nicknamed “The Freak,” Jevon Kearse was a dominant defensive force for the Gators from 1995 to 1998. Kearse’s rare combination of size, speed, and athleticism made him one of the most feared defenders in college football. Transitioning from linebacker to defensive end, he recorded 145 tackles, 16.5 sacks, and 34.5 tackles for loss during his Florida career. In 1998, he was named a first-team All-American and the SEC Defensive Player of the Year. Kearse’s disruptive presence was crucial in helping Florida consistently contend for SEC championships during his tenure.
These players not only excelled on the field but also contributed to the legacy and tradition of Gators football.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
Rex Grossman, (Quarterback, 1999 – 2002)
Kevin Carter, (Defensive Line, 1991-1994)
Shane Matthews (Quarterback, 1990 – 1992)
Lomas Brown, (Offensive Tackle, 1981–1984)
Fred Taylor, (Running Back, 1994-1997)
Eric Rhett, (Running Back, 1990-1993)
Ike Hilliard, (Wide Receiver, 1994-1996)
Travis McGriff (Wide Receiver, 1995-1998)
Reidel Anthony, (Wide Receiver, 1994 – 1996)
Alex Brown, (Defensive lineman, 1998-2001)
James Bates, (Linebacker, 1994-1996)
Chris Doering, (Wide Receiver, 1992-1995)
Jack Jackson, (Wide Receiver, 1992-1994)
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