Breaking: Florida Gators Confirms Another 5-Star Commitment Over Louisville and Miami
The Florida Gators have secured another top-tier legacy prospect for their 2025 recruiting class. Miami (Fla.) Booker T. Washington, a Top 100 cornerback, is the latest addition. He is the son of former UF linebacker Ben Hanks Sr., who played under Coach Steve Spurrier in the 1990s. Although the Gators initially offered Hanks Jr. early on, they weren’t seen as frontrunners in his recruitment until he visited Gainesville twice in June. These visits shifted the dynamic, with Florida emphasizing both his individual talent and the opportunity to carry on his family legacy. These messages resonated, and the Gators’ appeal grew over the summer, ultimately leading Hanks Jr. to commit.
Hanks Jr. acknowledged his father’s legacy at Florida, noting it as a factor in his decision. “Florida has a rich history, and I feel like I can help rebuild it to its former glory. I love the coaches, the environment, and the program,” he shared.
Head coach Billy Napier played a key role in recruiting the 6-foot-1, 170-pounder, with first-year defensive backs coach Will Harris also being instrumental. Harris quickly built a strong connection with Hanks Jr., and their relationship flourished over time. Hanks Jr. praised Coach Harris, citing his NFL background and ability to elevate the secondary’s performance.
BREAKING: Four-Star CB Ben Hanks Jr. has Committed to Florida, he tells me for @on3recruits
The 6’1 170 CB from Miami, FL chose the Gators over Miami & Louisville
Is the son of Former UF All-SEC LB Ben Hanks Sr.
“305 to 352, Gator Nation we here!!🐊”https://t.co/EAEikQX41t pic.twitter.com/V9wpBVMOkS
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) August 16, 2024
With Hanks Jr. on board, the Gators now have 13 verbal commitments for the 2025 class, including three prospects ranked in the Top 100 by 247Sports. Hanks Jr. is currently ranked as the No. 81 overall prospect and the No. 10 cornerback in the 2025 class.