**Florida Gators Make Strong Impression on Top DB Prospect CJ Hester During Spring Practice Visit**
The Florida Gators kicked off spring practice on Thursday, and while the team worked on the field, they also hosted several recruits on campus—including highly touted defensive back **CJ Hester** (6-1, 185, Cocoa, FL). Hester, one of the top prospects in the 2026 class, left Gainesville impressed by what he saw.
**Hester’s Take on the Visit**
– **Facilities and Energy**: “The visit was great,” Hester said. “I got to see the facility, the apartments where the players stay, and I got to watch the practice. The practice was impressive, the energy was high, and I got amped up just to watch.”
– **Defensive Backs in Action**: Hester paid close attention to the defensive backs during practice and came away impressed by their performance and the coaching of **Deron Wilson** and **Vinnie Sunseri**. “The defensive backs were high on energy, and it was great to see them ball,” he said. “Both coaches were good and very critical during drills, correcting mistakes but also pumping up the players when they made plays.”
**Coaching Staff’s Message**
After practice, Hester had the chance to speak with the coaching staff, who made it clear he’s a top priority for the Gators.
– **Deron Wilson and Vinnie Sunseri**: “They said they really want me here as a true outside corner,” Hester shared. “They said I would fit well in the system and that people here will take care of me and help me outside of football. They said I’m a priority for them.”
– **Billy Napier’s Leadership**: Hester also praised head coach **Billy Napier** for his approach. “I like that Coach Napier is a great person to talk to and learn from. He gets his guys to be appreciative of the people in the building who support the team.”
**Relationship with Coaches**
Despite the recent coaching change at his position, Hester says his bond with the staff is strong.
– **Deron Wilson**: “My relationship with Coach Wilson is very good, even though he just got there,” Hester said. “He’s a cool guy to talk to and very detailed when coaching.”
**Where Florida Stands in His Recruitment**
Hester left Gainesville with the Gators high on his list, but he’s also being heavily pursued by several other programs.
– **Florida’s Position**: “Florida stands high right now in my recruitment,” Hester said. “I like how everybody shows me love and treated me like family.”
– **Other Contenders**: Schools like **Georgia, Syracuse, Auburn, UCLA, Iowa, Georgia Tech, Rutgers, and Miami** are also recruiting him hard.
**The Bottom Line**
The Gators made a strong impression on Hester during his visit, showcasing their facilities, coaching staff, and team culture. With Florida firmly in the mix, Hester’s recruitment is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing storylines in the 2026 class.
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**Key Takeaways**:
– **CJ Hester**: 6’1”, 185-pound DB from Cocoa, FL.
– **Florida’s Pitch**: Priority recruit, fit for the system, and support beyond football.
– **Coaching Relationships**: Strong bonds with Deron Wilson and Billy Napier.
– **Top Contenders**: Florida, Georgia, Syracuse, Auburn, UCLA, Iowa, Georgia Tech, Rutgers, Miami.
The Gators are in a great position, but the battle for Hester’s commitment is far from over.
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