Gators Receive Prediction to Land Transfer Quarterback

As DJ Lagway announced his intentions to enter the portal and Sumrall hired Georgia Tech offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner in the same role, Philo quickly became a rumored target for the Gators should he decide to enter the portal.

Philo, who was originally anticipated to be the Yellow Jackets' starter in 2026, confirmed his plans to transfer on Dec. 16.

"Since I arrived on the Flats in 2024, I've been able to accomplish dreams I've had since I was a little kid, and that's thanks to you," Philo wrote in his portal announcement directed to his "Yellow Jacket family." "I am sincerely grateful for my time at Georgia Tech and for the opportunity to be a part of a prestigious program."

While Philo has limited experience, his brief time on the field showed a strong potential to be a quality starter at the Power Four level. In seven appearances across the last two seasons, Philo has completed 57.8 percent of his passes (59-for-102) for 938 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions.

Philo saw his best performances come in games against NC State in 2024, in which he threw for 265 yards while completing over 57 percent of his passes while adding a rushing touchdown in a 30-29 win, and against Gardner-Webb in 2025, in which he threw for 373 yards and a touchdown in a win.

Philo's predicted commitment to Florida does not come with a guarantee to be the starter, however. The Gators have retained redshirt freshman Tramell Jones Jr., Lagway's backup in 2025, and could add another quarterback out of the portal even if Philo commits.

Florida is also reported to have retained Aidan Warner, Lagway's backup in 2024, and signed four-star Will Griffin in its 2026 high school signing class.

Still, a commitment from Philo would check at least one of multiple boxes the Gators have this portal cycle as Sumrall continues to build his first roster with the Gators.

The NCAA Transfer Portal opened on Friday and closes on Jan. 16. Florida Gators on SI is tracking all of Florida's portal moves here.