Florida's Aaron Philo Named QB1 for Sumrall's Debut Season, What to Know About Georgia Tech Transfer

Florida head coach Jon Sumrall named Georgia Tech transfer Aaron Philo as the Gators' starting quarterback for the 2026 season on Monday, per ESPN's Pete Thamel.

Philo was ranked as a 3-star prospect in the 2024 class in 247Sports' composite before going on to appear in eight games with one start for the Yellow Jackets over the last two seasons. He has career numbers of 938 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions while completing 57.8 percent of his passes.

Thamel added that Philo has familiarity with Florida's offense after former Georgia Tech offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner was hired to the same position under Sumrall, who is entering his first year at the helm in Gainesville after spending the last two seasons coaching at Tulane.

Per ESPN, Philo had been competing against second-year quarterback Tramell Jones Jr. for the starting position. However, he was always viewed as "the perceived favorite because of his familiarity with Faulkner's system, which includes a kaleidoscope of pre-snap shifts and motions that compromise defenses."

While the Gators are coming off a disappointing 4-8 finish and their fourth losing season in the last five years, there is some hope that Sumrall will be able to turn things around quickly. Florida has one of the most talented players in the nation in running back Jaden Baugh, who was named second-team All-SEC last season after rushing for 1,170 yards and eight touchdowns. His presence will certainly open things up for Philo in the passing game as the team tries to contend for a spot in the College Football Playoff.

Philo will make his debut under center for the Gators when they open the season on Sept. 5 against Florida Atlantic.