Florida says coach Billy Napier on solid ground despite 15-18 record after promising signs
Florida coach Billy Napier is getting a fourth season to try to get the Gators back to their winning ways
GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Florida coach Billy Napier is getting a fourth season to try to get the Gators back to their winning ways.
Athletic director Scott Stricklin made the announcement in a “letter to Gator Nation” on Thursday that said the team is “building a foundation that promises greater success next season and beyond.”
The letter does not specicially mention the 2025 season, but a person familiar with the decision told The Associated Press that the intent was to send a message of stability for next year, not just the upcoming recruiting season. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because Florida's internal discussions are private.
“I wanted to let you know that Billy Napier will continue as head football coach of the Florida Gators,” Stricklin wrote. “As we’ve seen these past several weeks, the young men on this team represent what it means to be a Gator. Their resolve, effort and execution are evident in their performance and growth each week — building a foundation that promises greater success next season and beyond.”