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4-star DB CJ Hester commits to Florida Gators

79417-removebg-preview (1)by: Corey Bender07/03/25Corey_Bender

The Gators have added another key in-state piece to their 2026 recruiting class, as Cocoa (Fla.) defensive back CJ Hester announced his commitment to Florida on Thursday. This addition gives Billy Napier’s staff a versatile, physical presence in the secondary.

Hester chose the Gators over Georgia, Iowa, Auburn, Syracuse, Miami and others. Iowa was Florida’s top competition, but the Gators’ consistency and strong in-person presence ultimately sealed the deal.

“It’s the constant relationship and them constantly checking on me,” Hester told Gators Online when asked why Florida came out on top. “They’re constantly there and I have been up there 10 times, so I’ve seen everything. Everything is really close on campus and walking distance. It’s real accessible. A lot of people there are genuine and show you love.”

A big part of Florida’s success in this recruitment was Hester’s relationship with secondary coach Deron Wilson, who played a key role in building trust.

“He’s a genuine, father figure type of guy that you want to be around,” Hester said. “It’s real nice to talk with him and good to be around him. He’s a good coach and good to learn from.”

The relationship with Billy Napier played a key role as well. Hester appreciated how their talks went beyond football.

“It’s a good relationship. Every time I’m talking to him, it’s always good,” Hester said.
“We always talk about something new and how I can better myself as a player and man.”

Staying close to home was another factor. The Cocoa standout’s family was on board with the decision and excited for the opportunity to continue attending Hester’s games.

“They like it. It’s close to home, real accessible and they really like the people there,” said Hester.

With Hester now committed, Florida holds commitments from 16 prospects in the 2026 class. He is also the third addition in the secondary, joining Windemere (Fla.) 4-star cornerback CJ Bronaugh and Milton (Fla.) 4-star safety Kaiden Hall.

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