The Florida Gators have eight verbal commitments in the 2025 recruiting class and are eyeing several targets who are set to announce their commitments soon. Among these top targets is Orlando (Fla.) Jones’ four-star wide receiver Vernell Brown III, who has scheduled his commitment announcement for July 21.
Brown’s four finalists are Florida, Florida State, Miami, and Ohio State. As a legacy recruit, Brown has multiple family members who played at Florida, making him a significant target for the Gators. Last season, as a junior, Brown recorded 70 receptions for 1,363 yards and 10 touchdowns, along with four special teams touchdowns. Florida’s wide receivers coach, Billy Gonzales, who has a strong track record of developing NFL talent, has been spearheading Brown’s recruitment. Gonzales has provided Brown with a detailed plan highlighting how his coaching could help Brown achieve his goal of playing professional football.
“We sat down, and he showed me a presentation of what his plan for me is,” Brown said of Gonzales’ pitch. “It was good for him to actually show me. They have big plans and compare my playstyle to players like Kadarius Toney, Percy Harvin, and Tre Wilson. I’m unique, so the plan they have is individualized to me.”
Brown, familiar with UF’s campus from his upbringing and multiple visits, including an official visit last month, gained deeper insights into the program and the benefits of the Florida brand during his visit. He valued the time spent with current players, hearing their experiences, and noted the positive environment fostered by Coach Napier and his staff.
As Brown’s decision date approaches, the Florida Gators lead the predictions on the 247Sports Crystal Ball. The 247Sports Composite, an industry-generated average, ranks Brown as a five-star prospect and the No. 25 overall recruit in the 2025 class.
