Episode Details

On today’s episode of *Locked On Gators*, host Brandon Olsen takes a deep dive into one of the most important big-picture questions surrounding Florida football: did the Florida Gators roster actually improve from 2025 to 2026? Brandon breaks down the roster construction position by position, evaluating whether the Gators truly upgraded in the trenches, at quarterback, along the defensive front, and in the secondary, or if perceived improvement is simply optimism fueled by recruiting rankings and transfer portal buzz. The episode explores how player development, returning production, and incoming talent combine to shape the overall trajectory of the program, and whether Florida has finally built a roster capable of competing consistently in the SEC. Brandon analyzes the impact of key departures, the growth of young contributors stepping into larger roles, and how the coaching staff has attacked the transfer portal to patch weaknesses from last season. He also discusses how recruiting momentum in the 2026 cycle affects depth and long-term sustainability, and whether Florida now has the premium-position talent — quarterback, pass rusher, offensive tackle, and cornerback — required to compete at the highest level. Beyond raw talent, Brandon evaluates roster balance, leadership, experience, and the overall culture shift heading into 2026. Is this simply a more talented team on paper, or is it a more complete and cohesive roster? Can the Gators legitimately claim upward momentum, or are there still glaring holes that could hold them back? This episode provides a thorough, honest assessment of where Florida stands entering 2026 and whether the foundation has truly been strengthened. If you want a clear-eyed look at the direction of the program and whether the roster is trending up or standing still, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Everydayer Club  

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.  

Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub  

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

IMPROVEMENT?: Did Florida Gators Get BETTER from 2025 to 2026 under Jon Sumrall?

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.