Gators Commit Justin Williams’ Unselfish Play Shines Through
The Florida Gators secured a commitment from talented local recruit Justin Williams for the 2026 class this past summer. 
GAINESVILLE, Fla. — As he prepares for his senior season at Gainesville’s Buchholz High School, wide receiver Justin Williams has firmly positioned himself as one of the school’s all-time greats, as well as one of the most accomplished players in Florida’s rich high school football history.
Last season, Williams, who pledged to the Gators over the summer, posted impressive numbers with 1,473 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns, while also rushing for 1,023 yards and 16 touchdowns. This made him the first player in Florida to reach 1,000 yards both rushing and receiving in the same season since Devin Hester.
“What sets him apart is his mindset,” said Buchholz head coach Mark Whittemore. “He’s an incredibly unselfish player and will do whatever it takes to help the team win.”
A key example of Williams’ selflessness came last season when, due to injuries in the backfield, he transitioned from his usual receiver role to take over as the starting running back.
After making the move in mid-October, Williams quickly made an impact, rushing for over 100 yards in five of the next seven games. This included a standout performance against district rival Bartram Trail on October 25, where he ran for 297 yards and three touchdowns. The previous week, he scored seven touchdowns, tallying 146 yards and five touchdowns rushing, and 136 yards with two touchdowns receiving against Tocoi Creek.
“When we told him, ‘We need you in the backfield,’ he was all in. His response was, ‘Give me the ball. I want to win,’” Whittemore recalled. “That’s just who he is. He’s all about winning.”
Even as his duties expanded, Williams remained a dominant threat as a receiver, showing up in key moments like his 180-yard, three-touchdown performance against Osceola in the state semifinals.
“He’s carried us in so many ways—catching the ball, running the ball, and even returning kickoffs for touchdowns,” Whittemore said. “He’s been a huge part of our success.”
After his recruitment picked up steam, Williams ultimately chose Florida after an official visit in June. Despite ongoing interest from other programs, he’s remained committed to the Gators, keeping communication primarily with head coach Billy Napier and wide receivers coach Billy Gonzales.
“The recruiting conversations have slowed down, but I’ve been in touch with the coaches at Florida, and we’re building a strong connection,” Williams shared. “I can’t wait to get there and make an impact.”
Williams is also playing a role in Florida’s recruiting efforts, helping to shape the 2026 class. He was among the 17 recruits to commit to Florida during June and July.
“It’s exciting to see the class coming together with so many talented players,” Williams said. “We’re not finished yet, and I can’t wait to see who else joins us.”
With his recruitment now settled, Williams is refocusing on his senior season, where Buchholz aims to finally make it to a state championship after falling short in the semifinals for four straight years.
“Now that Justin’s committed, he can relax and focus on being the best leader for his team,” Whittemore said. “I’m thankful for him, because he’s made his decision, and now he can focus on the season ahead.”
Buchholz kicks off their 2025 season on August 21, facing Ocala Vanguard.
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