4-star safety Lagonza Hayward commits to Florida

Lyons (Ga.) Toombs County four-star safety Lagonza Hayward has committed to Florida.

He chose the Gators following his decommitment from Tennessee on Dec. 1. In-state Georgia was also in the mix for his pledge late.

Hayward is the No. 81 overall prospect and No. 9 safety in the 2025 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He’s also the No. 12 player in Georgia.

On3 ranks the 6-foot-1, 205-pounder higher than other recruiting services. He checks in as the No. 53 recruit, No. 3 safety and No. 5 player in the Peach State, per the 2025 On300.

Hayward’s decommitment from Tennessee came as a surprise to most, given he made the announcement just three days before the beginning of the Early Signing Period. He continued to keep other SEC schools warm and is now set to join a bustling recruiting class in Gainesville.