Florida's returning O-line was elite last year in pass pro, run blocking
GAINESVILLE, Fla — There’s a lot to like about what the Florida Gators bring back on offense for the 2025 season. Several key players are still in the starting lineup, including quarterback DJ Lagway, running back Jadan Baugh and wide receiver Eugene Wilson III.
But no position boasts more experience or production than UF’s offensive line, led by first-team All-American center Jake Slaughter. He is one of four returning starters for the Gators up front, as well as Austin Barber, Damieon George Jr. and Knijeah Harris.
Last year’s unit was among the nation’s best in run blocking and pass blocking, according to Pro Football Focus. UF finished with the fifth-highest run blocking grade at 79.9, which was tied for No. 7 nationally, and the eighth-highest pass blocking grade at 80.1, which ranked No. 11 in the country.
The Gators were the only team in the SEC to post grades that high in both categories. Florida’s elite production in the trenches helped the offense finish with an overall PFF grade of 84.1, which ranked No. 18 in the FBS. UF only allowed 20 sacks last season, the third fewest in the conference.
By comparison, LSU led the SEC with just 15 sacks allowed in 2024 and earned a 71.1 pass blocking grade from PPF. However, the Tigers posted a run blocking grade of 58.1, which ranked No. 96 nationally and No. 12 in the league, and finished dead last in the SEC in rushing offense (116.38 YPG).
LSU had four linemen selected in the 2025 NFL Draft, but the Gators bring back four starters up front and their new projected right tackle, Bryce Lovett, was a Freshman All-SEC selection last season.
“This is by far the deepest offensive line room that we’ve had since we’ve been here. We got guys that can play,” Florida offensive line coach Rob Sale said. “To be able to have a team of O-line coaches that we have and develop them in the way we break down individual, we script, there’s nobody never standing around.
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“There’s a year-round plan for development. It’s not a one-day deal, it’s not a one-week deal. It’s repeatedly doing the same thing over and over, revamping quality control in your work. And I do like the room. It’s really talented.”
While the Gators bring back most of their OL talent in 2025, they will lose a lot of it after this year. Barber, Slaughter and George are all redshirt seniors along with Devon Manuel and Kamryn Waites.
Florida has signed at least three offensive linemen from the high school ranks in every recruiting cycle under Billy Napier and will continue to prioritize signing HS prospects over taking transfers.
“It’s about recruitment. It’s development of the guys. We’re not a big portal operation,” UF assistnat OL coach Jonathan Decoster said. “We do the portal like old JUCO recruitment. We fill holes in the roster. I think if you do a good job in high school recruitment and developing guys, you keep that portal to a minimum and keep your culture intact.”
