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Jadan Baugh Chooses Florida for 2026, Spurning Texas Interest

His decision follows a reported seven-figure recruitment battle that underscores the new economics for top college running backs.

Overview

  • Baugh announced on Instagram on Tuesday that he will return to Gainesville for the 2026 season.
  • Florida made retaining the SEC’s No. 3 rusher a priority under new coach Jon Sumrall after running backs coach Jabaar Juluke left for Texas.
  • Reports say Florida kept Baugh in a contest with Texas, with figures around $1.3 million versus $1.5 million circulating but not independently verified.
  • New coordinator Buster Faulkner is expected to build his offense around Baugh, who ran for 1,170 yards in 2025 and has two seasons of eligibility remaining.
  • Texas, which sought Baugh to bolster Arch Manning’s backfield after multiple RB departures, will pivot to other portal targets.