Aaron Gates injury update: Billy Napier provides latest on ACL recovery

Florida defensive back Aaron Gates suffered a torn ACL in the Gators’ 24-17 win over Ole Miss on Nov. 23. On Tuesday, Florida head coach Billy Napier provided an update on Gates’ recovery.

“Napier says Aaron Gates has been a ‘full participator’ of late,” Nick de la Torre wrote on X. “‘He’s had an incredible road back and has been an example.'”

Gates made nine appearances and five starts for Florida last season. He finished the year with 27 tackles, an interceptions, two fumble recoveries and three pass breakups. It was his second season at Florida, but first as a significant contributor.

During his true freshman season, Gates played in four games, but only appeared on special teams. He ultimately redshirted and is now entering his redshirt sophomore year as a result. In June, Florida co-defensive coordinator/safeties coach Vinnie Sunseri raved about Aaron Gates.

“I love how tough he is, I love how smart he is. I love how he communicates, coverage, he attacks the runs. He’s an unbelievable football player,” Sunseri said. “He has a pro mentality. He does everything at a pro level. He shows up on time, he’s detailed in all of his rehabs, he’s detailed in his meetings. 

“He does everything that he’s asked to do, and probably more that I don’t see sometimes and the way he carries himself, he does it in a really good way. I’m extremely excited to get him back. I’m extremely excited to get him healthy and really looking forward to working with him.”

Florida’s secondary should be stacked this fall. Along with Gates, Florida is returning starting safeties Jordan Castell, Sharif Denson, Bryce Thornton and cornerback Devin Moore.

Florida’s defense struggled to defend the pass at times last season. The Gators allowed 227.5 passing yards per game, ranking No. 83 in the country.

For that exact reason, Florida hired Sunseri this offseason. Sunseri spent last season as Washington‘s safeties coach. Washington only gave up 166.5 passing yards per game in the 2024 campaign, the second-least in the nation.

Before joining the Huskies, Sunseri spent four seasons as an assistant coach on the New England Patriots. He’ll look to help Gates and his fellow defensive backs take a significant leap in the upcoming season.

On Aug. 30, Florida will kick off its upcoming season with a showdown against Long Island at 7 p.m. ET. The game will air live on ESPN+.