Florida Gators: Star Defender Reveals His Plans for 2025

The Florida Gators finished the regular season 7-5, with a 4-4 record in conference games and tenth overall in the SEC. For the second time in Billy Napier’s three-year tenure as head coach, the Gators have qualified for a bowl game, and it is the first time they will finish the season with a winning record, as well. Florida will travel to St. Petersburg, Florida, to play against the 9-4 Tulane Green Wave for the Gasparilla Bowl at Tropicana Field on Friday, December 20, at 3:30 P.M. ET.

The Florida Gators star defensive lineman reveals his plans for 2025

Gators star redshirt junior interior defensive lineman Caleb Banks released a statement saying that he will return to the University of Florida for the 2025 season, his final year of eligibility, instead of forgoing his last year of eligibility and declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft. Banks was considered a top prospect for the 2025 draft and considered an early-round selection. Here’s what he had to say about the subject matter.

“It goes without saying that the University of Florida football team means everything to me. It’s not just a team – It’s what I call family. The coaches pour their hearts into us day in and day out, and my teammates play with so much love, passion, and dedication… making it impossible not to love the Florida football program. And the fans? They’re the best part of playing football. Their energy and unwavering support drive us as a team to be the best we can be.

“After the incredible season Gator Nation just witnessed, I’m more motivated than ever to see what’s in store for next year – and, more importantly, to be a part of it.

“With that being said, I’m excited to announce that I’ll be continuing my career at the University of Florida for my final year of college football. As I prepare for this last lap, I’m ready to give it my all, achieve great things, and proudly represent Gator Nation!

“GO Gators!”

Caleb Banks announces his return to the #Gators in 2025 pic.twitter.com/gXD0crlVD6

— Graham Hall (@GrahamHall) December 9, 2024

The Florida Gators star had a great 2024 campaign

After having a solid first season in Florida in 2023, Caleb Banks broke out in 2024. The star interior defensive lineman notched career-highs in tackles, TFLs, stops, pressures, sacks, and forced fumbles, with 21 tackles, seven TFLs, 28 pressures, 13 stops, 4.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles. He also posted a 73.8 pass rush, a 62.1 run defense, and a 73.3 overall PFF grade.

Caleb Banks’s return will impact the Florida Gators’ defense and defensive line for 2025

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