Just In: Tim Tebow Named Athletic Director of University of Florida in Historic 2025 Move
GAINESVILLE, Fla. — In a stunning and historic development, the University of Florida announced today that legendary quarterback Tim Tebow has been named its new athletic director. The 2025 appointment marks a bold turning point for Gators athletics, combining the program’s championship pedigree with Tebow’s modern vision for collegiate sports leadership.
Tebow, 37, becomes the youngest athletic director in school history and the first former Heisman Trophy winner to take on such a role at a Power Five university. His appointment is already being hailed as a generational move, one that signals the Gators’ intent to dominate not only on the field but in the rapidly evolving landscape of college athletics.
“This isn’t just about football,” Tebow said during his introductory press conference at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. “It’s about building a culture of excellence across all sports, where student-athletes thrive academically, athletically, and spiritually. I am deeply honored to return to the University of Florida — not just to lead, but to serve.”
University President Ben Sasse described Tebow’s hiring as “transformative,” calling him “a once-in-a-lifetime leader whose impact will reach far beyond the sidelines.” Sasse pointed to Tebow’s unmatched leadership as a player, his post-college philanthropic work, and his national influence in sports media as defining traits that make him uniquely suited for this moment.
“Tim Tebow embodies everything the Gator standard stands for,” Sasse said. “His vision will usher in a new era — one where Florida becomes the model for athletic and personal development nationwide.”
Tebow’s appointment comes at a time of great change in college sports. With NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) policies, the transfer portal, and conference realignment reshaping the NCAA landscape, Florida appears to be betting on an athletic director who not only understands the current moment but has the charisma and cultural weight to lead through it.
Tebow’s strategic goals reportedly include enhanced athlete support systems, upgraded facilities, an emphasis on mental health and leadership training, and increased competitiveness across all sports, not just football.
As a two-time national champion and former first-round NFL draft pick, Tebow’s legacy in Gainesville is beyond reproach. But his return in an administrative role could make him one of the most influential figures in the history of college athletics — and perhaps the face of a new era in the SEC.
“This is just the beginning,” Tebow said. “We’re going to build something unforgettable — together.”