Florida Star Running Back’s Versatility Honored Ahead of 2025 Season originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Florida Gators had a dynamic freshman duo in their backfield in 2024. Quarterback DJ Lagway and running back Jadan Baugh stole the show in Florida’s 8-5 season, endearing themselves to the Gator faithful.
While Lagway’s impressive freshman year was somewhat expected, as he was the No. 1 quarterback in the country in his class, according to 247Sports, Baugh’s explosive first year at Florida caught some by surprise. He was a four-star recruit out of Columbia High School in Georgia, but was ranked outside the top-300 prospects in Rivals’ Industry Rankings.
Now, after an incredible 2024 in all facets of Florida’s team, Baugh is poised for an even bigger sophomore season. On Thursday, his versatility was honored a month before the 2025 season kicks off.
The Gators announced that Baugh was named to the Paul Hornung Award Preseason Watch List. This award his given to the most versatile player in college football by the Louisville Sports Commission annually.
Baugh’s multifaceted game was on display in 2024. He played in all 13 of Florida’s games, making four starts for the Gators while leading the team in rushing yards with 673 and total touchdowns with eight. The 6-foot-1 tailback averaged 5.1 yards per carry and scored seven times on the ground, and he added one receiving touchdown on four catches.
The sophomore was also Florida’s primary kick returner, averaging 21.5 yards per return. He was one of only 11 players in the FBS to have multiple 30-plus yard kick returns on the year. Baugh’s all-around performance earned him Freshman All-SEC honors.
Now, after putting up record-breaking numbers in the weight room this offseason, Baugh is ready for a huge year in 2025.
Related: “Strongest Guy That We’ve Ever Had:” Florida Coach Raves About Star RB
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 31, 2025, where it first appeared.