5-Star Recruit Trenton Henderson To Commit To Florida Gators Over USC Trojans?
Five-star edge rusher Trenton Henderson is one of the top defensive recruits in the 2026 class. He has placed the Florida Gators ahead of other national powers, such as the USC Trojans, LSU Tigers, Michigan Wolverines, Auburn Tigers, and Texas Longhorns, following an official visit to Gainesville. The 6-foot-4, 225-pound standout from Pensacola Catholic High School in Pensacola, Florida, named the Florida Gators his “team to beat” in an interview with Swamp247.
Florida now holds the top spot in Henderson’s recruitment after hosting him for a weekend visit that showcased the Gators’ facilities, culture, and future plans for him in their defense.
The people around the facility, how they want to use me, and they just show me every time like, you’re my guy I want,” Henderson told 247sports.
The Gators view him as a hybrid jack linebacker, a role that fits his versatility as a pass rusher who can also operate in space.
The Gators’ ability to check “all the boxes” helped them surge past other top programs in contention for Henderson’s commitment, including the LSU Tigers, which previouslyhosted him for an official visit. Other schools still in the mix include Michigan, Auburn, and the USC. However, Henderson canceled his visit with the Trojans after his trip to Florida.
Henderson also plans to visit Texas and Florida State in the coming months, but Florida’s position has clearly strengthened.
