GAINESVILLE, FL – Florida Gators head football coach Jon Sumrall has appointed Brad White as the Gators’ defensive coordinator, a move announced late Tuesday. White, previously the defensive coordinator at the University of Kentucky, brings a significant amount of experience and a well-regarded defensive scheme to the Sunshine State.
The hire comes after a relatively quiet offseason for the Gators following a disappointing 2024 season. Sumrall had been searching for a replacement for former defensive coordinator Patrick Frierson, who left to take a position with the New York Jets.
White, 45, has spent the last six seasons at Kentucky, steadily building a reputation as a rising star in college football. He arrived in Lexington in 2019, initially as a defensive analyst before quickly ascending to the role of co-defensive coordinator and later, the full defensive coordinator.
During his tenure at Kentucky, White oversaw a defense that repeatedly ranked among the most aggressive and productive in the Southeastern Conference. While the Wildcats haven’t achieved consistent national prominence, White’s defensive schemes have consistently generated pressure on opposing quarterbacks and disruptive play in the secondary.
“We are thrilled to welcome Brad White to the Gator family,” stated Sumrall in a press release. “Brad is a proven defensive mind with a strong track record of success. His experience and strategic approach will be invaluable as we continue to develop our players and build a championship-caliber defense.”
Details regarding White’s specific responsibilities at Florida remain forthcoming, but sources indicate he will be heavily involved in all aspects of the defensive game plan.
“I’m incredibly excited to join Coach Sumrall and the entire Florida program,” White said in a statement. “I’ve been impressed by the team’s dedication and work ethic, and I look forward to contributing to their success.”
The addition of White is widely viewed as a key move by Sumrall to address a defensive unit that struggled significantly in 2024. Analysts believe the new defensive coordinator’s background in generating blitzes and aggressive coverage schemes could be a catalyst for improvement.
The Gators begin preparations for the 2025 season next week, and the impact of White’s arrival will be closely monitored as they look to rebound from a challenging 2024.
Fuente:
https://deadspin.com/floridas-jon-sumrall-hires-kentucky-dc-brad-white/