ICYMI: 5-Star CB confirms commits to Florida Gators
Florida’s 2025 recruiting class got a boost on Friday when a cornerback from Booker T. Washington High School in Miami, chose the Gators over Louisville and Miami, as reported by On3.
“It was a tough choice, but in the end, Florida was the right fit,” he said. “I was really impressed by Georgia early on, especially after seeing their practice and learning about their program. Louisville was another school I loved during my official visit, and Miami was in the mix too. The more visits I took, the harder the decision became, but I kept coming back to Florida.”
Hanks, a legacy recruit, is seen as a key addition for Florida at his position and is the first defensive back from the 2025 class to commit. He is the son of former Gators linebacker Ben Hanks.
“I’ve built a strong connection with coach Billy Napier and coach Will Harris. I’ve been visiting Florida since I was a kid—my dad played there, my sister attended, and my cousin Treon Harris also played there. It just feels like home to me.
“That’s what made the decision easy in the end. Florida feels like home.”
Legacy commit Vernell Brown III quickly welcomed Hanks to the class on social media.
Recruiting Summary
Hanks is a four-star recruit across all major recruiting platforms, with On3 ranking him the highest at No. 72 in its standalone rankings. In the composite rankings, he is just outside the top 100.
Known for his long arms and ball-hawking skills in a highly competitive area, Hanks is also the 400-meter district champion, showcasing verified speed that allows him to match up 1-on-1 with most receivers.
Securing Hanks is a significant win for Florida, which had been seeking quality commitments throughout the summer. His commitment propels the Gators up 11 spots in the On3 team rankings, bringing them to No. 20 and moving them ahead of several SEC programs.
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