BREAKING NEWS: FLORIDA GATORS LAND NORTH TEXAS OFFENSIVE TACKLE HOWARD SAMPSON AMID RISING CHALLENGES
In a bold and surprising move that’s already sending shockwaves through the college football world, the Florida Gators have secured a commitment from North Texas offensive tackle Howard Sampson, a 6’6”, 320-pound powerhouse who was considered one of the top rising linemen in the transfer portal this offseason.
Sampson, who started all 13 games for North Texas last season, earned First-Team All-Conference USA honors for his dominating performance in the trenches. Known for his brutal pancake blocks and quick feet, Sampson had been courted by multiple Power Five programs including Alabama, Texas, and Oregon, but ultimately chose Florida citing “the program’s vision, coaching, and competitive grit.”
“I felt like Gainesville was where I could grow not just as a player, but as a leader,” Sampson said during a press conference Tuesday. “Coach Napier made it clear I wouldn’t just be filling a position — I’d be anchoring a new era of Gator football.”
The acquisition of Sampson comes at a critical time for Florida. The Gators, who struggled with offensive line depth and protection in the 2024 season, are undergoing a major rebuild following a wave of injuries, early NFL departures, and transfers. Sampson is expected to immediately compete for the starting left tackle position and bring veteran presence to a young and hungry offensive unit.
Inside sources revealed that Florida’s recruiting staff went all-in on Sampson, hosting him for a private campus visit, complete with a film breakdown session led by NFL scouts and a personalized NIL package rumored to be worth over $600,000 annually.
Analysts say this move could redefine Florida’s offensive identity heading into the 2025 season. “With Sampson protecting the blind side, the Gators just added a whole new level of toughness,” said ESPN’s Matt Barron. “This isn’t just a transfer — this is a foundational piece.”
Howard Sampson is expected to enroll later this summer and begin workouts with the team in August.
