GAINESVILLE, Fla. — If you’ve seen the hashtag on social media or heard the chant of “Run the Baugh!” echoing through The Swamp, it’s a clear sign that something special is unfolding with Jadan Baugh. Florida’s freshman running back isn’t merely crossing the end zone; he’s striking a chord deep within the hearts of Gator fans. So, how did a young athlete with aspirations that reached far beyond Decatur, Ga., find himself proudly donning the iconic Orange and Blue on Saturday afternoons?
To understand his journey, we may owe a debt of gratitude to Matt Napier.
Baugh’s path to Florida is anything but linear — it’s more akin to a complex zigzag, expertly maneuvering around would-be tacklers. Initially committed to Arkansas, he later reopened his recruitment, igniting a fierce competition between Alabama and Florida for his signature.
Sometimes, it only takes one game to capture attention, even in the cutthroat world of recruiting. After a preseason scrimmage in August 2023 that featured Baugh’s team, LaGrange (Ga.) High School head coach Matt Napier made a pivotal phone call to his brother, Gators head coach Billy Napier.
Little brother had a tip.
“Hey, you need to get on that Jadan Baugh guy,” Matt urged.
The Gators quickly intensified their recruitment efforts. Florida’s coaching staff approached the recruitment process with an energy reminiscent of a fourth-quarter comeback, wasting no time in making their ambitions clear.
However, in Napier’s eyes, Baugh was not merely another athlete on the field; he embodied a spirit that transcended sports. His athletic prowess extended into basketball, where he shined as a point guard, and he hailed from a family that provided him with steadfast support and encouragement.
“He’s the right kind. You take that one every time,” Napier noted, underscoring Baugh’s character and talent.
Signing with Florida was not solely about the storied legacy of the Southeastern Conference or the grandeur of playing for a powerhouse program. For Baugh, it was imperative to ensure the well-being of his family while discovering a space where he felt genuinely appreciated.
An integral part of his decision stemmed from the deep bond he forged with running backs coach Jabbar Juluke, who treated him like a son. Juluke’s impact extended far beyond teaching the intricacies of the game.
Juluke exhibited a level of care for Baugh that is all too rare in coaching. Acknowledging the balance between demanding excellence during practice and offering hugs afterward demonstrated a commitment to Baugh’s overall well-being.
The defining moment arrived the day he received a call from Juluke. Though the specifics of their conversations during recruitment remain undisclosed, Baugh found clarity in Juluke’s assurances. He promised that Florida would look after Baugh’s family, a significant comfort for him given the four-hour distance from home in Atlanta.
Being away from his brothers weighed heavily on him, but Juluke made it clear that they were bringing in not just a player, but an entire family into the fold of the Gators. With such a supportive network, choosing Gainesville became a straightforward decision.
“That played a big part,” Baugh remarked. “That really sealed the deal for me.”
In his unforgettable performance against Kentucky, Baugh stepped onto the field with a historic twist: it marked the first time in Florida’s storied history that a true freshman quarterback (DJ Lagway) and running back (Baugh) took the field as starters in the same game.
The pairing was intentional — a cornerstone of Napier’s vision all along.
“Man, do I,” Baugh reminisced when asked about that pivotal conversation. “I knew that DJ was here, too. It kind of gave me more confidence that I wanted to be here, too.”
As Lagway effectively orchestrated the offense, Baugh sent shockwaves through The Swamp with his electrifying style of play. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, as fans realized they were witnessing a moment destined for the record books — Baugh tied the legendary Tim Tebow and Trey Burton for Florida’s single-game record with five rushing touchdowns.
Baugh’s explosive running seamlessly complemented Lagway’s downfield capabilities, creating a thrilling challenge for Kentucky’s defense. As he maneuvered through defenders en route to the end zone, Baugh not only etched his name in history but also sparked a wave of optimism among the fans.
“Ever since the first time I saw him, I was just surprised that it was even possible for a running back to look like that,” said backup transfer quarterback Aidan Warner, who shared a room with Baugh before the Kentucky game. “Coming from Yale, the running backs didn’t look like he did.”
With his breathtaking 106 yards rushing performance in the win over Kentucky, Baugh and Lagway symbolize a potential renaissance for the Gators, where youthful talent converges to create unforgettable moments on the emerald field. With each touchdown scored, the duo isn’t just recording statistics; they are laying the groundwork for a promising future in Florida football.
As the Gators prepare to clash with their longstanding rivals from Georgia, Baugh has swiftly transitioned from being a sideline secret to a household name. Following his remarkable outing against Kentucky, all eyes are on him to leave a mark on one of college football’s grandest stages, especially with starting tailback Montrell Johnson Jr. listed as questionable.
Baugh’s talent has been recognized since his ninth-grade year when he showcased his skills at a 7-on-7 camp hosted by Georgia. At that time, he was just an ambitious kid striving to shine among a sea of aspiring athletes.
Now, as he exchanges a camp jersey for a Florida uniform, he is ready to confront the program he once aimed to impress. It’s a poignant full-circle moment — transitioning from training fields to the limelight, but this time, with the intent to compete fiercely.
Georgia’s head coach Kirby Smart has already acknowledged Baugh’s capabilities, offering accolades for the young athlete.
“He’s explosive, he’s twitchy, hard to tackle. He runs physical,” Smart stated.
As the Gators gear up to face their bitter rivals in Jacksonville, one sentiment rings out loud and clear: “Run the Baugh!”
Jadan Baugh stands poised and ready to heed that call.
**Interview with Jadan Baugh: Florida’s Freshman Running Back Sensation**
*Editor’s Note: We had the pleasure of speaking with Jadan Baugh, the freshman running back making waves at the University of Florida. Fresh off a record-setting performance against Kentucky, we delved into his journey from Decatur, Georgia, to The Swamp, and his remarkable connection with the coaching staff and teammates.*
**Editor:** Jadan, thanks for joining us today! Your journey to Florida has been quite a ride. Can you tell us what ultimately led you to don the Orange and Blue?
**Jadan Baugh:** Absolutely, thanks for having me! It’s been a crazy experience. Initially, I was committed to Arkansas, but things changed for me when I reopened my recruitment. Coach Matt Napier, my high school coach, reached out to his brother, Coach Billy Napier, about me. That really kicked off Florida’s interest. I felt the energy from their coaching staff immediately, and that made a huge difference for me.
**Editor:** It sounds like the Napier brothers played a significant role in your recruitment. What was it about Coach Jabbar Juluke that made you feel comfortable choosing Florida?
**Jadan Baugh:** Coach Juluke was instrumental in my decision. He treated me like family. He wasn’t just about football; he cared about my well-being and my family. Knowing I had that support while being away from home was really comforting. He reassured me that they’d look after my family, which meant everything to me.
**Editor:** Your performance against Kentucky was historic, tying the record for most rushing touchdowns in a single game. What was going through your mind during those moments on the field?
**Jadan Baugh:** It was surreal! I just wanted to come in and do my part for the team. As I scored, I felt this connection with the fans and my teammates. Seeing DJ (Lagway) out there as a true freshman quarterback gave me a boost of confidence. We worked hard together, and it was amazing to share that experience on the field.
**Editor:** Can you describe the atmosphere in The Swamp during that game? It must have felt electric!
**Jadan Baugh:** Oh, for sure! The energy was incredible. Gator fans are passionate, and to have them chanting “Run the Baugh!” felt unreal. It wasn’t just about the touchdowns; it was about building a bond with the fans and knowing they believe in us. We’re just getting started, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.
**Editor:** As you continue your journey at Florida, what does success mean to you personally and as part of the Gators?
**Jadan Baugh:** To me, success is about growth — both individually and as a team. I want to contribute to our wins and make the Gator Nation proud. It’s also about lifting up my teammates and setting a standard for future players. We’re building something special here, and I’m thrilled to be a part of it.
**Editor:** Thank you, Jadan! Your passion and dedication to the game are truly inspiring. We’re looking forward to seeing what you achieve in the coming seasons.
**Jadan Baugh:** Thank you! I can’t wait to show everyone what’s next for us. Go Gators!
