Rejecting offers from Florida State and Georgia Bulldogs, the top two SEC wide receiver target switches allegiance to the Florida Gators.
Joshua Moore, a highly regarded 4-star wide receiver from Pembroke Pines, Florida, made headlines in June 2024 when he committed to the Florida Gators over offers from in-state rivals Florida State and Miami. Standing 6-foot-3.5 and weighing 205 pounds, Moore was ranked among the top 10 wide receivers nationally by On3 and was considered a significant addition to Florida’s 2025 recruiting class. ​ftp.onlygators.com+9On3+9Hightop Sports+9
Recruitment Journey
Moore’s recruitment was closely followed by college football enthusiasts, particularly in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). His decision to commit to Florida was influenced by several factors, including the program’s proximity to his hometown, the opportunity for development, and the presence of a promising quarterback in DJ Lagway. ​SI+1On3+1
During his high school career at West Broward High School, Moore showcased impressive statistics, recording 50 receptions for 835 yards and nine touchdowns in his junior season. His performance on the field and his physical attributes made him a sought-after prospect among top college programs.​Rivals: Football & Basketball Recruiting+6On3+6Hightop Sports+6
Commitment to Florida
On June 26, 2024, Moore officially committed to the Florida Gators, marking a significant victory for head coach Billy Napier and his staff. Moore expressed that Florida felt like home to him, offering a balance between being close to home and providing ample opportunities for personal and athletic development. ​ftp.onlygators.com+5Gators Wire+5broward.us+5
His commitment was seen as a boost to Florida’s recruiting efforts, especially in a year where the Gators were aiming to strengthen their receiving corps. Moore’s decision was also a blow to Florida State and Miami, both of which had been heavily recruiting him. ​On3On3+2broward.us+2On3+2
Decommitment and Flip to Miami
However, in October 2024, Moore made the decision to decommit from Florida and commit to the Miami Hurricanes. This flip was influenced by several factors, including his perception of Miami’s program under head coach Mario Cristobal and the development of the wide receiver position. ​On3+5SI+5On3+5Gators Wire
Moore’s decommitment was a significant development in the recruiting landscape, as it highlighted the fluid nature of college football recruiting and the impact of program developments on a recruit’s decision-making process. ​
Impact on Florida’s Recruiting Class
Moore’s flip to Miami was a setback for Florida’s 2025 recruiting class. At the time of his commitment, Moore was considered the highest-ranked player in Florida’s class, according to On3’s rankings. His departure left a void in Florida’s receiving corps for the upcoming recruiting cycle.​Gators Wire+6SI+6On3+6
Despite this, Florida remained active in its recruiting efforts, securing commitments from other top prospects. Notably, Vernell Brown III, a 5-star wide receiver from Orlando, pledged to Florida in July 2024, signaling the Gators’ continued strength in recruiting. ​SI+1On3+1
Joshua Moore’s recruitment journey underscores the dynamic nature of college football recruiting. His initial commitment to Florida was a testament to the program’s appeal and recruiting prowess. However, his subsequent flip to Miami illustrates how quickly the landscape can change and the factors that can influence a recruit’s decision. For Florida, while Moore’s departure was a disappointment, the program’s ability to secure other top-tier commitments demonstrates its resilience and continued competitiveness in the recruiting arena.​
