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Gators' Tyreak Sapp Earns No. 7 Rank Among Returning Edge Rushers

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ryan Harris | Last updated Mar 22, 2025 1:32 PM ET

With anticipation building in Gainesville, the Florida Gators are ready to take the next step as they head into the 2025 season. Building on the progress made in 2024, the team is primed for an exciting year, with edge rusher Tyreak Sapp at the forefront of their defensive efforts.

Last season, Billy Napier and the Florida Gators battled injury to Graham Mertz, and ended with a record of 8-5, including four of the five losses coming to ranked opponents.

Sapp, returning for his senior season, was a dominant force last year. He led the Gators with seven sacks, 13 tackles for loss, and two forced fumbles. Pro Football Focus listed him as the seventh best returning edge rusher this season.

His relentless work ethic and leadership have firmly established him as the heart of Florida's defense, making him a cornerstone for the team’s success in 2025.

Sapp’s decision to stay in Gainesville adds a veteran presence to a retooled defensive unit. The edge group will feature returning standouts like Kam James and George Gumbs, alongside promising newcomers from a top-ten recruiting class, including Jayden Woods, and UMass transfer Kofi Asare. This blend of experience and fresh talent positions the Gators' defense as a force to be reckoned with in the SEC.

Florida’s challenging 2025 schedule provides an opportunity for the Gators to showcase their grit and determination. With Sapp anchoring the defense and a talented roster around him, Florida fans have every reason to be optimistic. As the Gators aim to build on last season’s momentum, Sapp’s leadership and playmaking abilities will undoubtedly be pivotal.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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