Well, February’s National Signing Day is closing in, and while the hype isn’t what it used to be, it’s still a final battleground for Billy Napier and the Gators. But holding onto recruits? That’s another story. Plus, let’s not forget Dan Lanning already has his sights set on Florida’s three-star safety. A guy with over 40 offers who’s even making a move towards Oregon. And can we blame him? With Chris Hampton stacking elite safety talent in Eugene, the Gators might have a fight on their hands. Let’s just hope Napier better lock this one down before it’s too late.

Picture this scenario: you are acquiring a defensive playmaker with an impressive track record and the stats to prove it. Devin Jackson, a safety from First Academy, is not your average recruit – he is a game-changer. During his sophomore year at West Orange, he recorded 58 tackles, 2 pass breakups, and a fumble recovery in only nine games. Remarkably, even as a freshman, he demonstrated his skills with 58 tackles and 5 pass breakups while playing at the varsity level.

Now, after transferring to First Academy, his stock is skyrocketing. The Ducks wasted no time taking notice and made their move when linebackers coach Brian Michalowski offered him on the road last month. See, every program wants to fill up its team with talented players, but what makes this more scary for Billy Napier is Devin’s increasing interest in Dan Lanning’s program. Talking about it, he says, “That offer really meant a lot to me. Coming from Oregon, I watched them play as I grew up. Seeing what they can do, and as we see the Big Ten, they’re leading in college football right now.”

It’s no surprise that Oregon ranks among the top programs in college football, thanks to Dan Lanning’s construction of a title-contending machine. This caught Devin Jackson’s attention. With elite talent flowing into Eugene and Lanning securing top-tier recruits, the Ducks have transformed into a powerhouse that cannot be ignored. Meanwhile, Billy Napier and Florida are working hard to stay competitive, aiming to secure every available piece before Signing Day arrives.

And with some recent wins under their belt, the Gators have made a significant move by securing a commitment from four-star CB Onis Konanbanny, who they managed to steal from Tennessee. This acquisition has elevated Florida’s 2025 class to No. 7 in the country and No. 10 overall, factoring in transfers. It marks their most successful recruiting class in more than ten years, indicating that Napier still wields considerable influence. Despite currently ranking No. 5 in the SEC, Florida shows no signs of stepping back from the fierce competition in the conference’s recruiting battles.

But even with their best efforts, they haven’t secured Devin Jackson’s commitment yet. Oregon’s offer has clearly captured his interest, prompting consideration of multiple trips to Eugene. If Lanning gets him on campus enough times, Napier might have another fight on his hands.

Dan Lanning’ increasing chances to tamper Devin Jackson

Well, even though Devin Jackson has never been to Oregon, but he has taken notice of Dan Lanning’s program. The Ducks’ presence in the College Football Playoff picture, their business-like approach, and the culture of player development all stand out to him. “I just see a lot of great things. I know there’s not a lot to do down in Oregon, but I know Oregon is about their business,” Jackson further added to it, saying, “I see them contributing to a lot of college football playoffs, and it seems like everybody is just solid and about football.”

Moreover, for Devin Jackson, Oregon’s track record with defensive backs, who made his way from Eugene to the NFL, adds to the appeal as he says, “It’s a football program—you’re about football, and everybody’s chasing to go to the NFL,” he said. “One of my favorite safeties was Jevon Holland. I used to watch him when he was at Oregon. When he was handling business, and he made his dreams to the NFL.” Now, that’s really not something Billy Napier was hoping to hear.

Let’s be real: Dan Lanning ensures elite-level recruiting every year in Oregon. Alongside his chief of staff, Marshall Malchow, he has perfected the process, resulting in three consecutive top-10 classes and back-to-back top-five hauls in 2024 and 2025. This demonstrates that Oregon is not only competing but also establishing a formidable recruiting system.

Now, with Jackson seriously contemplating multiple visits, Dan Lanning and his team have another opportunity to showcase their expertise in recruiting and secure a big win. Let’s just wait and see how this recruiting war gonna end up!