Trysten Shaw Chooses Florida Gators!
5-Star EDGE Rusher Turns Down Alabama & LSU for Gators Football
In one of the most pivotal recruiting wins of the 2026 cycle, five-star EDGE rusher Trysten Shaw has officially committed to the Florida Gators, choosing Billy Napierโs program over powerhouse contenders Alabama and LSU. The announcement comes after weeks of speculation surrounding Shawโs recruitment, and it marks a defining moment for Floridaโs pursuit of elite defensive talent.
Shaw, ranked as one of the top defensive prospects in the nation, has long been viewed as a program-changer. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing in at 250 pounds, he brings a rare combination of speed, power, and explosiveness off the edge traits that have drawn comparisons to some of the SECโs greatest pass rushers in recent memory.
Why Florida?
Shaw cited his relationship with Floridaโs coaching staff, the programโs defensive vision, and the opportunity to make an immediate impact in Gainesville as major factors in his decision.
โFlorida felt like home,โ Shaw said during his commitment ceremony. โCoach Napier and Coach [defensive coordinatorโs name] believe in me, and I believe in the direction this team is going. I want to be part of building something special in The Swamp.โ
Turning Down the Giants
Both Alabamaโs Nick Saban and LSUโs Brian Kelly made Shaw one of their top defensive targets, pushing hard to secure his commitment. Ultimately, Floridaโs consistent recruiting pitch and the promise of early playing time swayed Shaw to choose Gainesville over two national championship contenders.
What This Means for Florida
Shawโs commitment is a statement win for the Gators on the recruiting trail. With Florida battling to re-establish itself among the SECโs elite, landing Shaw proves the program can still go toe-to-toe with Alabama and LSU for blue-chip talent.
For Florida fans, this decision brings excitement and renewed optimism as the Gators look to rebuild a dominant defensive identity. Shaw is expected to anchor Floridaโs pass rush for years to come and could quickly become one of the most feared defenders in college football.
Bottom Line: Florida just landed a future defensive superstar. Trysten Shawโs decision to spurn Alabama and LSU in favor of the Gators is more than a recruiting win itโs a message that Florida is ready to compete with the SECโs best again.
