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Gators in heated battle for 4-star WR Calvin Russell ahead of July commitment

79417-removebg-preview (1)by: Corey Bender05/29/25Corey_Bender
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Calvin Russell, a standout wide receiver from Miami Northwestern, has narrowed his college choices to eight schools and plans to announce his commitment on July 5. On3’s Hayes Fawcett was the first to report Russell’s top eight.

The 6-foot-5, 190-pound receiver is one of the top prospects in the 2026 class and has drawn national attention. He recently took an official visit to the University of Florida from May 16-18. It was his third know visit at the Swamp, but that OV is what solidified the Gators as a top contender.

“It was a great visit,” Russell previously told Gators Online. “Coaching staff was great, welcoming. The official visit guys were welcoming too; it was great. I feel like it definitely gave me a feel (for UF). I definitely didn’t miss out on nothing. The presentation was so great. It was a great visit overall.”

Florida made the cut alongside Miami, Michigan, Florida State, Oregon, LSU, North Carolina and Syracuse. Russell is expected to take additional visits before making his final decision. His July 5 commitment will come after careful consideration of his finalists.

Florida views Calvin Russell as an immediate contributor

The Gators have already made a strong impression. Florida’s staff has prioritized Russell in the 2026 cycle and hosted him for multiple visits, including this most recent official. Russell spent time with the coaches, toured the facilities, and got a closer look at how he would fit into Florida’s offense.

“Coach Napier is used to it. Had guys like Julio Jones, Amari Cooper, Calvin Ridley, DeAndre Hopkins,” Russell said. “I’m just like another one of them, but me at the same time. It stands out a lot, shoot, to know you’re someone like Julio Jones wanted to come play for.”

If he chooses the Gators, Russell would join a 2026 recruiting class that features quarterback Will Griffin and defensive lineman Jamir Perez, although plenty of others are expected to join this summer.

Adding a top-tier receiver like Russell would give Florida a major boost on the offensive side of the ball. He checks in as the No. 4 wide receiver and No. 33 overall prospect in the On3 Industry Ranking.

“I love Florida,” Russell said. “It’s nice. They’ll definitely be high because they’re really been showing me love since I was a baby.”

Stay tuned to Gators Online.

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