Gators Snatch Five-Star Linebacker from Under Alabama’s Nose, Prompting Tense Response from DeBoer
In a stunning recruiting upset that sent shockwaves through college football, the Florida Gators have landed five-star linebacker Jamari Henderson — a coveted defensive prospect who had long been considered a near-lock for Alabama. The last-minute commitment flip has reportedly sparked a fiery reaction from Crimson Tide head coach Kalen DeBoer, who allegedly sent a stern and “thinly veiled” warning message to Florida’s coaching staff.
Henderson, ranked among the top five linebackers in the nation, had been courted by Nick Saban’s successor since early in his junior year. Alabama insiders claimed the program felt “extremely confident” that Henderson would anchor their next defensive core. But late momentum from the Gators, aided by NIL partnerships and strong connections built by Florida defensive coordinator Austin Armstrong, shifted the tide in Gainesville’s favor just days before the decision.
The linebacker’s commitment video, released Monday night, showcased him donning the Gators’ orange and blue — a moment that sent Florida fans into a frenzy and left Alabama supporters in disbelief.
Sources close to the situation have confirmed that Coach Kalen DeBoer did not take the news lightly. According to an SEC insider, DeBoer reached out privately to Gators head coach Billy Napier and members of Florida’s recruiting team with a message described as “warning in tone” and “borderline threatening.” The exact content of the message has not been disclosed, but one source stated, “It was clear Coach DeBoer felt lines were crossed.”
While no formal complaint has been made, the incident has drawn attention from SEC officials, who may review whether any recruiting protocols were violated. Florida maintains that their recruitment of Henderson was fully compliant with NCAA regulations.
College football analysts note that such intense reactions are not uncommon in the high-stakes world of five-star recruiting battles, especially when longtime pipeline programs like Alabama are involved.
Still, the Gators’ stunning win on the recruiting trail is being viewed as a major statement — not just in the SEC, but nationally. With Henderson’s commitment, Florida secures a defensive cornerstone and builds serious momentum heading into the next season.
As for Alabama, this unexpected loss raises questions about whether the post-Saban era under DeBoer is as ironclad as many believed. If nothing else, it’s clear the rivalry between the two programs is heating up — and the 2025 recruiting cycle just got a lotmore personal.
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