LB Derek Wingo says goodbye to Gator Nation
Friday’s victory over Tulane in the Gasparilla Bowl marked the final game in a Florida Gators uniform for linebacker Derek Wingo.
That led to the fifth-year senior penning his goodbyes on Saturday in a letter posted on social media.
Wingo, a former 4-star recruit from Fort Lauderdale (Fla.) St. Thomas Aquinas, appeared in all 13 games in 2024 for the 8-5 Gators. He finished with 12 tackles (4 solo), one pass deflection and 0.5 sacks.
“Dear Gator Nation, I’m thankful to God that I have been able to live out my dream of playing at the University of Florida,” said Wingo. “I would like to thank Coach Mullen, Coach Napier, Coach Robinson, Coach Bateman, Coach Armstrong and Coach Roberts for giving me the opportunity to not only better myself as a football player but as a person.
“To my family that has been my guide and support system my entire life but especially during these last few years, I will also be thankful for the sacrifices you have made for me.
“I’m proud to say that I will always have a place to call home to bring my family back to and always be able to say I am a Florida Gator for life.
“With that being said, I will be declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft.”
Wingo has career totals of 71 tackles (24 solo), five sacks and three pass breakups. He previously earned his bachelor’s degree in Education Sciences and made the SEC Fall Academic Honor Roll three times.
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As a member of the 2020 class, Wingo was the No. 9 linebacker and No. 48 prospect regardless of position. He was also the No. 8-ranked senior in the state of Florida. That is all according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.
Prior to signing the Gators, Wingo was committed to Penn State for some time. Additional schools that offered include Ohio State, Auburn, Clemson, Georgia, Michigan, Texas, Oregon and Tennessee.
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