Florida DB Lagonza Hayward returning for 2026

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Florida freshman defensive back Lagonza Hayward announced his return for the 2026 season on his social media channels Sunday. Hayward posted a video (below) to his Instagram story with the caption "run it back."

Hayward is expected to step into a larger role at the STAR/nickel back position for Florida following Sharif Denson's departure from the program. Aaron Gates, who has also announced his return, also plays nickel, but Florida has also lost Josiah Davis to the transfer portal.

A consensus four-star recruit out of high school, Hayward flipped from Tennessee to sign with Florida in the 2025 class. He played in 11 games as a true freshman, recording 12 tackles (seven solo), one sack, two quarterback hurries and 3.5 tackles for a loss. His best game came against Mississippi State, when he recorded six tackles (four solo) and 2.5 tackles for a loss.

"Obviously, we got him on campus a number of times back in the spring and summer," former head coach Billy Napie said of Hayward after signing him.

"Came up a little short. Just another one of those guys that we were able to get on campus here the last couple weeks. In his heart, he knew he wanted to be here. You've got to continue to chip away at these guys that you maybe finish second or third on. You can turn it around if you play well.”

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This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: Florida Gators football DB Lagonza Hayward re-signs with Gators

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