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Vernell Brown III talks Ben Hanks III's development, Florida's WR depth and more
- Florida wide receiver Vernell Brown III said Buster Faulkner's new offense was a lot to install but that the group is ready from an assignment standpoint entering Week 1.
- Brown described Florida's offense as exciting and said quarterback Aaron Philo commands it well, knows the answers, and puts the ball where it needs to be.
- Florida's receiver room is described as competitive and deep, with Brown expecting Dallas Wilson to have a big year and Kahleil Jackson looking strong after returning from injury.
- Brown said freshman Justin Williams is turning the corner and should be ready whenever Florida needs him.
- Brown praised Ben Hanks III's cornerback development, length, savvy, and coverage understanding after frequent spring work against him.
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Florida releases first depth chart of 2026 season
- Aaron Philo is Florida's confirmed starting quarterback for the Florida Atlantic opener.
- Florida's opening offensive line is Bryce Lovett, Knijeah Harris, Harrison Moore, TJ Shanahan Jr. and Emeka Ugorji from left tackle to right tackle, with depth competitions continuing behind them.
- Lacota Dippre will start at Y tight end, while Amir Jackson and Luke Harpring share the top H-back designation.
- Kamran James, LJ McCray and Emmanuel Oyebadejo are all listed as first-team defensive ends in a highly competitive rotation that Jon Sumrall expects to use across different packages and roles.
- Kanye Clark leads Florida at STAR, while Cormani McClain and J'Vari Flowers share the second outside-corner role.
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ESPN: FBS coaches highlight Florida CB as 2026 breakout candidate
- Cornerback Ben Hanks III is positioned for a breakout after impressing Florida's new staff during spring practice and earning praise from Jon Sumrall for his length, speed, competitiveness and work habits.
- Hanks flashed in limited 2025 action with two pass breakups and a 48-yard interception return in his first start against Florida State.
- Florida receivers TJ Abrams and Vernell Brown III say Hanks has become more professional, consistently adds extra work and gives them high-level competition in practice.
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