Aaron Philo has officially won the quarterback competition at Florida, giving the Gators a new starter heading into the 2026 college football season. First-year head coach Jon Sumrall announced Monday that the Georgia Tech transfer will open the season as Florida’s QB1.
The decision puts Philo at the center of Florida’s plans as the program looks to rebound from a difficult 2025 campaign. He is scheduled to make his first start for the Gators on Sept. 5 against Florida Atlantic in Gainesville.
Aaron Philo Named Florida’s Starting Quarterback
Florida selected Aaron Philo over redshirt freshman Tramell Jones Jr. following an offseason competition between the two quarterbacks.
Philo, a redshirt sophomore, joined Florida after playing at Georgia Tech during the 2024 and 2025 seasons. His transfer also reunited him with offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner, who moved from Georgia Tech to Florida this offseason.
The quarterback now has an opportunity to take control of the offense and become a key part of Sumrall’s first season as Florida’s head coach.
Aaron Philo’s College Football Experience
Philo appeared in eight games for Georgia Tech across the 2024 and 2025 seasons. During that time, he completed 57.8% of his passes for 938 yards.
He finished his Yellow Jackets career with two touchdown passes and three interceptions.
Although his previous college experience was limited, Florida has an opportunity to develop Philo into a full-time starter. He also has three years of eligibility remaining.
His familiarity with Faulkner’s offensive system could help him make a smoother transition into the starting role.
Why Florida Chose Aaron Philo
The quarterback battle between Philo and Jones was considered competitive throughout the offseason. Sumrall previously indicated that neither player had created a significant separation from the other.
The coach highlighted several factors that would determine the starter, including command at the line of scrimmage, handling motions and shifts, protecting the football and providing leadership.
Philo ultimately earned the job.
His previous experience and knowledge of Faulkner’s system were important factors as Florida prepared for the start of the 2026 season.
Tramell Jones Jr. Remains an Important Option
Although Philo won the starting job, Tramell Jones Jr. remains an important part of Florida’s quarterback room.
Jones played in two games for the Gators last season, completing 21 of 35 passes for 191 yards. He also threw two touchdowns without an interception.
Sumrall has spoken positively about the relationship between the two quarterbacks, noting that they compete against each other while also supporting one another.
That competition could remain valuable throughout the season as Philo takes on the pressure of being Florida’s QB1.
Aaron Philo Replaces DJ Lagway
Philo is taking over the starting quarterback role previously held by DJ Lagway.
Lagway transferred to Baylor after Florida finished 4-8 during the 2025 season under former coach Billy Napier and interim coach Billy Gonzales.
The change makes Philo one of the most important players in Florida’s transition under Sumrall.
He will be expected to provide stability at quarterback while helping install a new offensive identity.
When Will Aaron Philo Make His Florida Debut?
Aaron Philo is set to make his first start for Florida on Sept. 5 against Florida Atlantic in Gainesville.
The season opener will provide the first major opportunity for Philo to show why he won the quarterback competition.
It will also give fans their first competitive look at Florida’s offense under Sumrall and Faulkner.
What to Expect From Aaron Philo in 2026
Philo enters the 2026 season with significant responsibility. Florida is starting a new era under Sumrall, and quarterback play will be critical to the team’s progress.
His previous experience at Georgia Tech, familiarity with Faulkner and three remaining years of eligibility give the Gators reasons to be optimistic.
However, Philo will need to turn his limited college experience into consistent production. Protecting the football, making good decisions and effectively managing the offense will be among his biggest challenges.
If he can make that transition, Philo could establish himself as a long-term answer at quarterback for Florida.
Aaron Philo Height, Weight and Position
Aaron Philo is listed at 6-foot-1 and 208 pounds. He plays quarterback and enters the 2026 season as a redshirt sophomore.
He attended Prince Avenue Christian in Bogart, Georgia, before beginning his college career at Georgia Tech.
His transfer to Florida represents an important new chapter in his college football career.
Final Take
Aaron Philo will begin the 2026 season as Florida’s starting quarterback after winning a competitive battle with Tramell Jones Jr.
The Georgia Tech transfer brings previous college experience, familiarity with offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner and three years of eligibility to Gainesville.
Now, Philo has the opportunity to establish himself as Florida’s quarterback of the future while leading the Gators into a new era under Jon Sumrall. His Sept. 5 matchup against Florida Atlantic will be the first major test of Florida’s new quarterback plan
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