New Florida Coaching Staff Prioritizing Linebacker Development for 2026

As the Florida Gators prepare for the 2026 football season, the program is placing significant emphasis on revitalizing its linebacker corps. This renewed focus stems from a coaching staff with deep roots in the position. Head coach Jon Sumrall, a former standout linebacker at Kentucky, and defensive coordinator Brad White, a three-year starter at Wake Forest, are implementing a defensive scheme designed to highlight the group’s strengths.

The transition to a 3-4 defensive alignment is expected to allow linebackers to operate more aggressively in space. Returning junior Myles Graham noted that the coaches’ shared background has helped build strong relationships within the unit. To facilitate this shift, Sumrall brought in Greg Gasparato from Tulane to specifically coach the position. Gasparato has adopted an accelerated learning curve, throwing complex concepts at players quickly to instill a sense of urgency and improve their recall speed before the season opener.

A major storyline for the upcoming fall camp involves the health and progression of Graham. After posting a team-high 76 tackles and 7 tackles for loss last season, the 6-foot-1, 225-pound defender underwent offseason shoulder surgery which limited his spring participation. Despite 106 career tackles and 9.5 tackles for loss, Graham is focused on self-scouting and improving in all areas to become a dominant force in the SEC.

Contributions will also be needed from senior Jaden Robinson and sophomore Aaron Chiles. Robinson, who has 105 career tackles and 5.5 sacks, is being challenged to take on a more vocal leadership role. Gasparato emphasized that communication—specifically the ability to talk, run, and hit simultaneously—is critical for the linebackers to succeed in the new system. Chiles, looking to build on a 52-tackle sophomore season, adds depth to a room that is attempting to fully grasp the “fast and violent” style Sumrall demands.

What to watch

• Fall Camp Installation: How quickly the linebackers can recall and execute the new defensive concepts without hesitation.
• Health Monitoring: Myles Graham’s return to full contact following shoulder surgery.
• On-Field Communication: Evidence of improved verbal coordination and leadership among the linebacker group.

Source: original release