Four Gators named Phil Steele Preseason All-Americans
Four Florida Gators made the Phil Steele Preseason All-America team this year, according to 247Sports, but none of those names are DJ Lagway.
Jake Slaughter headlines the list as an AP All-American at the close of the 2024 season; however, Steele has him on his Second Team. The only First Team member from Florida this year is long snapper Rocco Underwood, who claimed the Patrick Mannelly Award last season as the best at his position.
Defensive lineman Caleb Banks is on the Third Team after a strong finish to the 2024 campaign. He had the chance to enter the NFL draft but opted to stay with the Gators for another season. Looking to improve his draft stock, Banks could be among the best linemen in the SEC this season. He had 12 tackles, 7.0 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery over 10 starts last year.
Redshirt sophomore Eugene Wilson III is a somewhat surprising addition to the Fourth Team from Steele. Wilson was among the better freshmen receivers two years ago, but injuries slowed him down and forced a redshirt last year. Steele is assuming a return to form from Wilson with DJ Lagway throwing the ball to him.
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