Trio of Florida Gators named to 2025 Comeback Player of the Year Award watch list
Redshirt sophomore wide receiver Eugene Wilson III, redshirt junior defensive lineman Jamari Lyons and redshirt sophomore defensive back Aaron Gates were among those named. All three have dealt with significant injury adversity and are looking to prove a point on the gridiron this fall.
Wilson suffered a season-ending hip injury in his second year following a phenomenal freshman campaign that showcased his electric qualities on offense. Last year, he played in the team's first four games hauling in 19 receptions for 266 yards and a touchdown — that score coming on an 85-yard jet toss from DJ Lagway against Samford — before being sidelined.
Lyons suffered a season-ending injury prior to the opening kickoff of 2024 after recording 20 tackles (10 solo) and 2.5 tackles for loss in 2023, which had set him up for high expectations. His broken ankle required two surgeries and multiple rehab stints, but he appears prepared for his return in 2025.
Gates suffered a torn ACL in the Ole Miss late last November, taking him out of action for the team's final two games — against the Florida State Seminoles to close out the regular season and Tulane Green Wave at the Gasparilla Bowl. Still, he was an important contributor at the STAR position, finishing fifth on the team in tackles-for-loss with a 4.0 and logged a total of 27 tackles (14 solo), along with an interception, three pass breakups, two fumble recoveries and a quarterback hurry.
About the Comeback Player of the Year Award
Since 2018, the Comeback Player of the Year Award watch list has been comprised of 75 student-athletes who overcame an injury, illness or other circumstance in the previous year. Each player returned to full health for the 2025 season and showcased their skills, helping their teams compete to their highest potential.
The Comeback Player of the Year Award honors three of the athletes who were named to the watch list as winners of the award. The three winners are chosen by a panel of Associated Press college football writers and sports information directors.
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