Florida WR Eugene Wilson III Named to 247Sports Freshman All-American Team

Serving in an increasing volume throughout the 2023 campaign, Wilson emerged as a focal point weapon early into the 2023 schedule. It initially came via a mix of designed touches — screens, jet sweeps and pop passes — before expanding into traditional downfield targets as quarterback Graham Mertz worked through his progression as the year went on.

His relative newness as a summertime enrollee contributed to Napier and Co.'s early acclimation process for the elite-caliber talent. However, his explosiveness in his early practice sessions forced Florida to plug him into the gameplan early in his collegiate career.

The concerted effort to utilize Wilson's dynamic skillset began with six touches for 44 yards on the opening drive in the Gators' 29-16 upset victory over No. 11 Tennessee in The Swamp on Sept. 16.

Despite getting injured in the matchup, forcing him to miss the ensuing two games, Wilson maintained his uptick in usage as the year went on, culminating in 90 yards and two scores on eight catches in the first quarter against the Arkansas Razorbacks on Nov. 4. He scored the opening touchdown for the Gators in four straight contests, reaching pay dirt five times against Georgia, Arkansas, LSU and Missouri.

Wilson finished his freshman campaign with 593 scrimmage yards and six scores on 67 touches.

His production has earned him vast recognition as a top first-year player in college football in 2023. More importantly, from Florida's perspective, Wilson's output provides the unit a top playmaking option for the offense heading into the critical 2024 season for head coach Billy Napier and his staff's tenure.

He will be the most proven wideout to return to the Gators roster following the departure of Ricky Pearsall (NFL Draft) and Caleb Douglas (transfer portal) following the conclusion of the 5-7 year.

Wilson will strive to build on his debut season as the top receiving option in a young pass catchers' room in 2024.