Florida zeroing in on RB coach target, per report
By David Wasson
Published:
New Florida coach Jon Sumrall is reportedly targeting Duke’s Chris Foster to coach the Gators’ running backs in 2026.
CBS Sports reported that Foster is Florida’s top target for the role. Foster’s Blue Devils rushing attack ranked 94th in FBS in 2025 in rushing offense at 132.5 yards per game, though running back Nate Sheppard finished second in the ACC with 962 yards gained on 178 carries.
One of Foster’s immediate tasks would be to help retain the services of Florida running back Jadan Baugh, who became the Gators’ first 1,000-yard rusher in over a decade when he went off for 1,170 yards in 2025. Baugh, who turned in a 300-yard rushing effort against Florida State in Florida’s season finale, is reportedly meeting with Sumrall this week to discuss his future plans.
Baugh has also been linked with other big-time programs such as SEC rivals Texas and Georgia, as well as defending national champion Ohio State. The sophomore piled up 673 yards rushing in 2024 with 7 touchdowns as a freshman at Florida before his full explosion in 2025.
Foster’s hire is also notable in that he is one of the few Sumrall choices that don’t have previous ties to Tulane. Sumrall has already tapped Joe Craddock (QBs), Jonathan Galante (special teams), Byron “Bam” Hardmon (outside linebackers), Greg Gasparato (include linebackers), Evan McKissack (tight ends) and strength coach Rusty Whitt to come with him from New Orleans.
An APSE national award-winning writer and editor, David Wasson has almost four decades of experience in the print journalism business in Florida and Alabama. His work has also appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, the Los Angeles Times and several national magazines and websites. He also hosts Gulfshore Sports with David Wasson, weekdays from 3-5 pm across Southwest Florida and on FoxSportsFM.com. His Twitter handle: @JustDWasson.
