The Gators’ Rock: Jake Slaughter earns more praise from ESPN
Earlier this week, ESPN released its “2025 Way-Too-Early College Football All-American Team.” Included on the team, as many Florida Gators fans anticipated, is center Jake Slaughter.
“One of the best pieces of news for Billy Napier this offseason was Slaughter’s announcement that he was returning for another season. It’s equally good news for Florida quarterback DJ Lagway to have Slaughter back in the middle of the Gators’ offensive line,” said ESPN’s Chris Low.
“Slaughter was one of the best centers in the country in 2024, and his experience, toughness and versatility will serve the Gators well in 2025.”
This past season, Slaughter manufactured a season to remember for the Gators and started all 13 games. He led the offensive line in total snaps played with 800 and received numerous accolades in the process, including AP All-American First Team honors and All-SEC First Team honors. He was also a member of the ESPN All-American Team.
According to Pro Football Focus, Slaughter ranked fifth nationally among centers with an offensive grade of 81.1. His run blocking grade of 79.0 ranked seventh nationally. He was the Gators’ most consistent offensive linemen alal season and led that unit with top grades in both pass and run blocking.
Top 10
- 1Breaking
AP Poll Top 25
Top 3 shakeup
- 2
Paul Finebaum
SEC prefers UNC, UVA for expansion?
- 3
New No. 1
Coaches Poll Top 25
- 4
Women's AP Poll
New No. 1 in Top 25 shakeup
- 5Hot
Top 25 shakeup
Baseball poll sees big movement
Get the On3 Top 10 to your inbox every morning
By clicking "Subscribe to Newsletter", I agree to On3's Privacy Notice, Terms, and use of my personal information described therein.
Slaughter, a native of Ocala, is Florida’s second First-Team AP All-American in Billy Napier’s three seasons as coach. He joins O’Cyrus Torrence, a 2022 All-American who now is a member of the Buffalo Bills. Consensus All-Americans at Florida earn a brick outside the southwest corner of the Swamp.
Not a member of Gators Online?
CLICK HERE to join the Gators Online community! It’s the top place for passionate Florida fans to find the best insight and news in the market.
Boasting a talented collection of experienced journalists, we dig deep into recruiting and provide breaking news and analysis on UF sports.
SIGN UP for the GatorsOnline Newsletter — Receive Breaking News, In-Depth Analysis via Email!
