Historic College Football Program Loses Two Players to Transfer Portal

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Historic College Football Program Loses Two Players to Transfer Portal

The Florida Gators endured a difficult 2025 college football season, finishing 4-8 overall and 2-6 in SEC play, a marked decline from expectations for a program that frequently contends for conference titles.

Florida was 2-4 in the first half of the season, with losses against the LSU Tigers, Miami Hurricanes and Texas A&M Aggies, and never gained consistent traction. The poor results led to a midseason coaching change when the school fired head coach Billy Napier in October and replaced him with interim leadership. Inconsistent offensive execution and defensive struggles left Florida outside bowl contention, with the program shifting its focus on rebuilding ahead of the 2026 campaign.

As the Gators prepare for next season under new head coach Jon Sumrall, who was hired in late November, the program has undergone a series of notable changes, including the addition of three-time national champion offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner.

Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway (2).Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

Amid the changes, Florida was dealt a setback on Friday as two of its players entered the transfer portal, adding to what has already been a notable offseason of roster movement for the Gators.

Freshman running back Chad Gasper confirmed to CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz that he is entering the transfer portal. The Texas native, who joined Florida in 2025 and was a part of the Gators’ freshmen runners, has four years of eligibility remaining and will seek a fresh opportunity elsewhere after failing to record a snap in 2025.

Florida will also be without starting defensive back Sharif Denson, who is entering the transfer portal, according to On3Sports.

Denson spent three seasons with the Gators, compiling 97 total tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, three pass breakups, one forced fumble and one interception during his time in Gainesville. He started numerous games in the secondary and was a key piece of Florida’s defense.

These departures, particularly Denson’s, represent meaningful losses for Florida’s roster as the program continues its offseason overhaul. Gasper’s exit reduces depth in the running back room, while Denson’s transfer leaves a vacancy in the defensive backfield that Florida must now fill through recruiting or portal acquisitions.

The Gators will open next season against the Florida Atlantic Owls on Sept. 5, 2026.

Related: Lane Kiffin, LSU Lose Key Personnel to Ole Miss Amid College Football Season

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 27, 2025, where it first appeared in the College Football section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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