Florida football continues to generate national media attention this offseason and a contributing factor to that is star running back Jadan Baugh. In the latest edition of ESPN’s top running backs rankings in college football, Baugh landed just short of the top at No. 2, cementing himself as a premium playmaker at his position.
The list was compiled by surveying more than 20 front office staffers across the sport, including general managers, player personnel directors and scouting directors, in search of who they consider the top returning players in the country. The rising junior running back was amongst the very best, speaking volumes to the respect he has earned following his 2025 campaign.
Baugh took a significant leap forward and emerged as a top back in the SEC. After a strong freshman season, he nearly doubled his production in both rushing attempts and yardage, finishing with 220 carries and 1,170 yards on the ground last year.
He also extended his impact beyond the ground game, adding 33 receptions for 210 receiving yards and 10 total touchdowns, showing his versatility and solidifying himself as Florida’s workhorse running back and positioning him well for SEC and national honors next season.
What makes Baugh’s ranking on the list special is the depth and talent among his peers at his position. This list is loaded with multiple projected first-rounders in next year’s draft, many of whom are expected to be contenders for the Doak Walker Award, given annually to the nation’s top running back.
Despite the depth at the running back position at Florida, scouts and talent evaluators still expect Baugh to have a high production output as he leads the Gators.
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This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: Where Florida’s Jadan Baugh ranks on ESPN’s 2026 running backs list
Reporting by Michael Trim Jr, Gators Wire / Gators Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Michael Trim Jr, Gators Wire | USA TODAY Network
