Florida Gators Emerge as Major Contender for Elite Four-Star Safety Devin Jackson from The First Academy in 2026 Class
Devin Jackson, the 6-foot-1, 190-pound defensive back from The First Academy in Orlando, Florida, is quickly emerging as one of the premier safety prospects in the Class of 2026. A four-star recruit with offers from some of the most prestigious programs in the nation, Jackson has taken the recruiting world by storm with his combination of size, instincts, football IQ, and physicality. As his recruitment heats up, the Florida Gators have solidified themselves as one of the frontrunners to land the talented defensive back, and for good reason.
Jackson’s rise through the recruiting rankings has been both swift and well-earned. Known for his ball-hawking ability, smooth footwork, and fierce tackling, he has become a key target for defensive coordinators across the country who are looking to bolster their secondary with a versatile safety who can play deep coverage, patrol the box, and serve as a leader in the back end. Despite receiving offers from schools like Alabama, Georgia, Ohio State, LSU, and USC, it’s Florida that continues to resonate with the young star — both for its football legacy and its proximity to home.
Florida’s defensive staff, particularly safeties coach Corey Raymond and defensive coordinator Austin Armstrong, have been relentless in their pursuit of Jackson. From attending spring practices to hosting him on multiple visits in Gainesville, the Gators are making it clear that Jackson is a priority. The coaching staff has gone out of its way to build a strong relationship not only with Devin himself but with his family, ensuring that their vision aligns with his long-term development both as a player and as a student-athlete.
During his unofficial visit to Gainesville earlier this year, Jackson came away impressed with what he saw. He was particularly drawn to Florida’s revamped defensive system under Armstrong, which places a premium on safeties being aggressive, instinctive, and heavily involved in both pass coverage and run support. That scheme fits Jackson’s strengths perfectly. He’s the type of athlete who thrives when given responsibilities all over the field — whether it’s ranging over the top in Cover 1, coming down in the box to disrupt the run game, or matching up against athletic tight ends and slot receivers in man coverage.
One of the key takeaways from Jackson’s time in Gainesville was the sense of family and unity he felt within the program. The Gators have placed a major emphasis on culture under head coach Billy Napier, and it’s something that resonates deeply with recruits who are looking for more than just a football factory. Jackson noted in interviews that he admired the energy of the coaching staff, the brotherhood within the team, and the resources Florida offers to help its athletes succeed on and off the field.
Florida’s recent track record of putting defensive backs in the NFL also adds weight to their pitch. From Chauncey Gardner-Johnson to Kaiir Elam and beyond, the Gators have a long-standing tradition of producing high-level defensive talent. That legacy is something that Jackson has acknowledged as part of his decision-making process. He wants to go somewhere that will not only develop him for Saturdays in the SEC but also prepare him for Sundays in the NFL.
The battle for Jackson is far from over, however. Programs like Alabama and Georgia are not backing down in their efforts. Alabama offers the allure of Nick Saban’s defensive genius and a track record of championships, while Georgia boasts the No. 1 defense in the country over the past several years and a recent run of national titles. Ohio State and LSU, two more programs that have developed elite safeties, are also pushing hard.
But Florida has a built-in advantage that none of those schools can offer — it’s home. Jackson’s family lives less than two hours from Gainesville, and the opportunity to stay close to his support system while playing at the highest level is a major draw. Additionally, Florida’s recent recruiting momentum — landing a string of top in-state prospects and putting together one of the best 2026 classes in the country — signals a program on the rise.
Jackson’s recruitment is a microcosm of Florida’s larger efforts to reestablish itself as a dominant force in college football. After years of inconsistency and coaching turnover, Napier has brought a sense of stability and long-term vision. His staff has prioritized relationships, development, and player empowerment. That approach is paying dividends on the recruiting trail, and Jackson is a prime example.
On the field, Jackson brings an elite toolset that makes him one of the most complete safeties in the class. He possesses a long frame that allows him to cover ground quickly, and his instincts are second to none. He anticipates throws well, reads quarterbacks with veteran-like precision, and doesn’t shy away from contact. His tape is filled with examples of him crashing downhill to blow up screen plays, tracking deep balls with effortless range, and making textbook tackles in open space.
Equally impressive is his leadership. Coaches rave about his maturity, his attention to detail, and the way he commands respect in the locker room. He’s the type of player who sets the tone at practice, holds teammates accountable, and leads by example. That leadership, combined with his athletic gifts, makes him a true cornerstone prospect.
In a recruiting era increasingly shaped by NIL deals and social media attention, Jackson has kept a level head. He’s remained focused on finding the right fit — a place where he’ll be challenged to grow, supported by a strong culture, and positioned to compete for championships. Florida has done an exceptional job making that case.
The next few months will be crucial. Jackson is expected to take more unofficial visits, potentially narrow his list to five schools, and take official visits during the fall. Florida is hoping to get him back on campus for a marquee game in The Swamp, which could serve as a turning point in his decision. A strong showing on the field — particularly on defense — will only help solidify Florida’s position.
Florida fans should be encouraged by where things stand. While nothing is final in recruiting until pen meets paper, the signs are trending in Gainesville’s favor. Jackson has repeatedly mentioned his comfort level with the coaching staff, his admiration for the program’s direction, and the appeal of staying close to home. Those are factors that often carry more weight than flash or hype.
If the Gators can ultimately seal the deal with Jackson, it would represent not just another blue-chip commitment, but a statement about the program’s ability to win head-to-head battles against national powers. It would also give Florida a foundational piece in the secondary — a player capable of starting early, leading a defense, and setting the tone for years to come.
As the 2026 cycle begins to sharpen in focus, all eyes will remain on Devin Jackson. He is the type of prospect who doesn’t just fill a spot — he transforms a defense. Florida has done everything right to put themselves in position, and now they’ll look to finish strong in one of the most competitive recruitments in the country.
Jackson’s decision will ultimately be his own, but as things stand now, the Gators have put themselves in the driver’s seat. If Florida can continue to build momentum and show progress on the field this fall, don’t be surprised if Devin Jackson is wearing orange and blue on Saturdays in the near future.
