Florida Gators Battling Two Rivals for 4-Star WR Brandon Bennett

In the competitive world of college football recruiting, few prospects have garnered as much attention as Brandon Bennett, a 4-star wide receiver from Plantation, Florida. As the 2026 recruiting cycle heats up, Bennett’s recruitment has become a focal point for several top-tier programs, with the Florida Gators, Florida State Seminoles, and Georgia Bulldogs emerging as the primary contenders for his commitment.

Brandon Bennett’s journey to becoming one of the nation’s top wide receiver prospects began at American Heritage High School in Plantation, Florida. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 170 pounds, Bennett possesses a blend of size, speed, and agility that makes him a formidable threat on the field. His sophomore season was nothing short of impressive, as he recorded 21 receptions for 479 yards, averaging an eye-popping 22.8 yards per catch. Additionally, he showcased his versatility by returning a 97-yard kickoff for a touchdown in the state championship game, further solidifying his status as a dynamic playmaker .

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Bennett’s recruitment has been marked by a series of significant offers from prestigious programs across the country. Schools such as Michigan, Oklahoma, Ole Miss, and Auburn have extended invitations, but it is the in-state programs—Florida, Florida State, and Georgia—that have emerged as the frontrunners in his recruitment .

The Florida Gators have long been in the mix for Bennett’s services, and their position as a top contender has only strengthened in recent months. A pivotal factor in Florida’s favor is the relationship Bennett has developed with the coaching staff, particularly wide receivers coach Billy Gonzales and head coach Billy Napier. Bennett has expressed his appreciation for the coaching staff’s approach, noting the emphasis on developing young talent and the program’s commitment to excellence .

Adding to the Gators’ appeal is their recent success in recruiting high-caliber wide receivers. The commitment of 5-star wide receiver Vernell Brown III, a legacy recruit whose father played for Florida, underscores the program’s ability to attract top-tier talent. Brown’s decision to join the Gators over offers from Ohio State, Miami, and Florida State highlights the program’s growing prominence in the national recruiting landscape .

Florida State has been a consistent presence in Bennett’s recruitment, and their proximity to Bennett’s home in Plantation adds an element of familiarity and comfort. The Seminoles’ coaching staff has made significant efforts to build a strong rapport with Bennett, emphasizing their offensive scheme and how he would fit into their plans. Florida State’s rich football tradition and recent successes make them a formidable competitor in this recruitment battle.

The Georgia Bulldogs round out the trio of schools vying for Bennett’s commitment. Under the leadership of head coach Kirby Smart, Georgia has established itself as a perennial powerhouse in college football, consistently competing for national championships. The Bulldogs’ reputation for developing NFL-caliber talent, particularly at the wide receiver position, makes them an attractive option for prospects like Bennett looking to elevate their game to the next level.

Bennett’s recruitment is approaching a critical juncture, with official visits scheduled to each of the three schools. He is set to visit Georgia first, followed by Florida State, and concluding with Florida on June 13. These visits will provide Bennett with an opportunity to experience each program firsthand, interact with the coaching staff, and assess how each school aligns with his personal and athletic goals.

While Bennett has not publicly announced a commitment date, the outcome of these visits will likely play a significant role in his decision-making process. The Gators, Seminoles, and Bulldogs all offer unique advantages, and Bennett’s choice will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the trajectory of his collegiate career.

As the recruitment of Brandon Bennett enters its final stages, the Florida Gators find themselves in a heated battle with Florida State and Georgia for one of the nation’s top wide receiver prospects. Each program brings its own strengths to the table, and Bennett’s decision will be influenced by a combination of factors, including coaching relationships, program culture, and potential for development.

For the Gators, securing Bennett’s commitment would not only bolster their receiving corps but also send a strong message about their recruiting prowess in the state of Florida. As the June 13 visit approaches, all eyes will be on Bennett to see which program he ultimately chooses to continue his football journey.