The 2025 season hasn't been up to par for either program on the field but off it, they're building solid 2026 classes.
Two programs with high expectations entering 2025, both Florida and Texas have faced their fair share of criticism five weeks into the year.
For Florida, the Gators are once again plagued by offensive inconsistencies. Those issues have led to three straight losses.
Texas has fared much better in the win-loss department, but Longhorns fans haven't been thrilled with the quality of those wins.
Both programs can be pleased with how their teams have recruited, despite their on-field struggles.
According to 247Sports, Texas has the No. 6 overall class with 31 commitments and a trio of five-star pledges. While the Gators don't have a five-star commitment this cycle, their class sits at No. 13 with 19 commitments.
Who are the future stars already committed to each program? Here's a look at each of their top five 2026 commitments so far.
Florida Gators top 2026 football recruits
CJ Bronaugh
High School: Windermere (Fla.)
Position: Cornerback
Height: 6-1
Weight: 166
Kendall Guervil
High School: Fort Myers (Fla.)
Position: Defensive Lineman
Height: 6-4.5
Weight: 315
Davian Groce
High School: Lone Star (Frisco, Texas)
Position: Athlete
Height: 6-1
Weight: 190
KJ Ford
High School: Duncanville (Texas)
Position: EDGE
Height: 6-3.5
Weight: 245
Marquez Daniel
High School: Booker T. Washington (Tuskegee, Ala.)
Position: Wide Receiver
Height: 6-5
Weight: 195
Texas Longhorns top 2026 football recruits
Dia Bell
High School: American Heritage (Plantation, Fla.)
Position: Quarterback
Height: 6-2.5
Weight: 215
Tyler Atkinson
High School: Grayson (Ga.)
Position: Linebacker
Height: 6-2
Weight: 210
Jermaine Bishop
High School: Willis (Texas)
Position: Athlete
Height: 5-11
Weight: 155
Richard Wesley
High School: Sierra Canyon (Chatsworth, Calif.)
Position: EDGE
Height: 6-5
Weight: 250
Derrek Cooper
High School: Chaminade-Madonna (Hollywood, Fla.)
Position: Running back
Height: 6-1
Weight: 205
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY High School Sports Wire: The top 2026 football recruits for Florida and Texas
Category: General Sports
