Florida football RB Jaden Baugh re-signs with Gators for 2026 season

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After weeks of speculation Florida football running back Jaden Baugh has announced his intention to return to Gainesville on Tuesday, Jan. 6.

“Being a Gator means everything to me," Baugh told Florida Victorious. "I still remember the first time I walked into The Swamp in uniform for my first spring game. It just felt different — almost like a heartwarming feeling — and I knew right then that this was the place for me.”

Baugh was reportedly having discussions with Texas, especially after the Longhorns hired UF’s former running back Jabbar Juluke.

This past season, the sophomore ball carrier became Florida’s first 1,000-yard rusher since 2015.

His best game of the season came in UF’s season-finale against rival Florida State as he rushed for two touchdowns and 266 yards, which was the second-most ever in a game by a Gator.

Florida football coach Jon Sumrall noted that retaining Baugh would be a priority during his introductory press conference, which was held two days after Florida's game vs. Florida State.

“I watched that game Saturday before I went and played Saturday, and I'm like, hey, can I give the ball to No. 13 ten more times?” Sumrall said in his introductory press conference.. “If an offensive coordinator doesn't know what to do, that's a pretty good choice.”'

Retaining Baugh marks arguably the biggest win for Sumrall as he continues to retool Florida's roster.

“I just want to thank the fans for everything they did last year," Baugh said. "Their support meant a lot, and we definitely needed it. Going into this year, I’d say it feels like a revenge tour. There’s a lot of motivation, and we’re excited about what’s ahead.”

Baugh ended the year with 1,170 yards and eight touchdowns along with 33 catches for 210 yards and three scores. As a true freshman in 2024, he ran for 673 yards and seven touchdowns.

Reach Florida Gators writer Andrew Abadie at AAbadie@usatodayco.com or on X (formerly Twitter) at @AndrewAbadie. You can also find him on Facebook at Andrew Abadie Sports Reporter or on Instagram @andrewabadie_sports.

This article originally appeared on The Gainesville Sun: Florida football RB Jaden Baugh to stay with Gators in 2026

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