One of the Gators’ top targets in the 2025 class, regardless of position, has declared that he will formally come to Gainesville this summer. Mandarin (Jacksonville, Fla.) High safety Hylton ‘Drake’ Stubbs will officially visit the University of Florida from June 7-9, he told On3 Sports on Friday. He also plans to visit USC (May 30-June 1), Florida State (June 14-16), and Miami (June 21-23), as he gets closer to making a commitment decision.
As a junior, Stubbs stood out as one of the most prolific ball-hawking secondary defenders in the country for the 2025 cycle, with exceptional length, speed, and range in the Mustangs’ rear. He recorded six pass breakups, six interceptions, three fumble recoveries, and two forced fumbles this season. Austin Armstrong, Gators defensive coordinator, and Will Harris, newly appointed secondary coach, have taken note and are teaming up to recruit him.
Following Harris’ appointment as defensive backs coach this offseason, the two Florida assistants are now competing to build a roster of defensive backs. At this point, they believe Stubbs is the best safety prospect on the board.
The Gators have been avidly pursuing Stubbs since his offer on Jan. 21, 2023, and have hosted him on campus seven times to far. They anticipate remaining a significant contender in the Duval County standout’s recruitment process until the finish. According to the 247 Sports Composite rankings, Stubbs is ranked fourth at safety and 49th overall in the 2025 class. The timetable for his pledge is presently uncertain. However, there is optimism within the UF program that he will eventually join the Gators. Earlier this year, Stubbs stated that Florida would be his top choice for recruitment. His multi-day visit in June will undoubtedly play an important role in securing his talents.
