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IMG Academy TE Kekua Aumua commits to Florida Gators

79417-removebg-preview (1)by:Corey Bender•06/09/25•

Corey_Bender

Kekua Aumua
Kekua Aumua (Keith Niebuhr/On3)

The Florida Gators have added another key piece to their 2026 recruiting class with the commitment of Kekua Aumua, a 3-star tight end out of IMG Academy.

Florida had been trending for Aumua for several months, and after wrapping up his official visit to Gainesville, he decided there was no need to wait any longer. The visit solidified what had been building behind the scenes for a while.

Since last December, Aumua has visited Florida a handful of times, giving the coaching staff several opportunities to make a lasting impression. That consistent effort paid off.

“Their strength and conditioning program; their nutrition program is next level; the way they take of their athletes is next level,” Aumua told Gators Online of his commitment.

“The thing that stood out to me is the connection Billy Napier built with us and the connection coach Callaway kept building with us. He started early and didn’t slow down. A lot of these colleges show love and then starting slowing down, but coach Callaway was full speed ahead.”

From the start, Callaway made the tight end a clear priority, building a strong relationship through frequent communication and a clear plan for how Aumua would fit into the offense.

“His main message this weekend was that I’m their guy and they definitely want to get me. I wouldn’t be here if they didn’t want me,” Aumua said of Callaway.

Florida views Aumua as a well-rounded prospect and reliable option in the short and intermediate passing game. At 6-foot-6, 257 pounds, the Hawaii native brings a solid frame with room to grow along with plenty of upside as a pass catcher.

“They were top three this year with 12 personnel,” said Aumua. “Some of their tight ends got injured too and they missed three games with their two tight ends, so them being top three still (is impressive). They use them and I’m happy with the way they’re telling me how they’re going to use me.”

While he may not be one of the most highly ranked prospects in the country, Aumua has been a quietly important target for the Gators. His development at a powerhouse program like IMG Academy, combined with his upside and potential in the SEC, made him a name to watch for the Florida staff.

Additional top contenders for Aumua included Washington, North Carolina and BYU, although nearly 20 programs offered altogether.

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