4-star WR Jaden Upshaw says Gators 'can definitely develop me'

Florida is a top contender for 4-star receiver Jaden Upshaw, and his visit to watch practice Saturday only seemed to strengthen that standing.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Jaden Upshaw, a 4-star wide receiver prospect, visited the University of Florida and came away impressed with the new coaching staff, particularly head coach Jon Sumrall's energy and the relationship he has built with receivers coaches Marcus Davis and Trent McKnight. Upshaw said the Gators can 'definitely develop me into a great receiver' and that Florida remains a top school in his recruitment, which he plans to decide on in the coming weeks.

Why it matters

Securing top wide receiver talent is crucial for the Florida Gators as they look to rebuild their offense under new head coach Jon Sumrall. Upshaw is a highly sought-after prospect, ranked as the No. 12 receiver and No. 61 overall player in the 2024 recruiting class, so landing his commitment would be a major win for the program.

The details

During his visit, Upshaw was impressed by the energy and hands-on approach of head coach Jon Sumrall, who made a point to connect with the recruit. Upshaw also cited his strong relationships with receivers coaches Marcus Davis and Trent McKnight, who previously recruited him at other schools, as a key factor. While the coaches didn't dive into specifics of how Upshaw would be used, they emphasized his versatility and potential for development in their offense.

  • Upshaw plans to make additional spring visits to Alabama, Miami, Tennessee and Texas A&M.
  • Upshaw has an official visit to Florida scheduled for June 11, after he plans to make his commitment decision in April.

The players

Jaden Upshaw

A 4-star wide receiver prospect from Leesburg, Georgia, ranked as the No. 12 receiver and No. 61 overall player in the 2024 recruiting class.

Jon Sumrall

The head coach of the University of Florida football team, known for his energetic and hands-on approach with players.

Marcus Davis

The wide receivers coach for the University of Florida football team, who previously recruited Upshaw at another school.

Trent McKnight

The wide receivers coach for the University of Florida football team, who previously recruited Upshaw at another school.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It was definitely great. I came in January, met the new staff, they were great. The coaches were great. I alway had a great relationship with [receivers coaches Marcus Davis and Trent McKnight] when they was at their other schools so seeing them together, it was interesting. Just wanted to come back and sere how the practice was.”

— Jaden Upshaw, 4-star wide receiver prospect (on3.com)

“He came up to me and was like, 'I'm glad you came out here.' Energetic as I don't know what. He 's definitely a very cool guy. … I've heard from a couple players he's challenging. If something is wrong, he's going to come to you and tell you what's wrong. He's going to be a hard coach when he needs to be.”

— Jaden Upshaw, 4-star wide receiver prospect (on3.com)

“They can definitely develop me into a great receiver. Eric Singleton, he played under both of them and now he's here playing up under them again. So that means a lot.”

— Jaden Upshaw, 4-star wide receiver prospect (on3.com)

What’s next

Upshaw plans to make additional spring visits to Alabama, Miami, Tennessee and Texas A&M, and he has an official visit to Florida scheduled for June 11, after he plans to make his commitment decision in April.

The takeaway

Jaden Upshaw's visit to Florida and his positive impressions of the new coaching staff, particularly head coach Jon Sumrall and the receivers coaches, have solidified the Gators as a top contender in his recruitment. Securing Upshaw's commitment would be a major boost for the program as they look to rebuild their offense under Sumrall's leadership.