Please Read: Welcome to the new-look Inside the Gators
- Happy Homecoming: Former teammates talk Hardmon and Trautwein
- Tulane player goes in-depth on Sumrall
Ellis McGaskin is a four-star linebacker from Williamson High School in Mobile, Alabama. McGaskin was a part of the first Florida official visit weekend of the summer from May 28th-May 30th. This furthered his connections with various coaches, especially linebacker coach Greg Gasparato. He committed to the Gators on June 6th, 2026. McGaskin is the No. 373 ranked prospect according to the Rivals Industry Composite.
Learn more about his personal life, recruitment process, and why he chose Florida in this edition of Getting to Know.
FOOTBALL/RECRUITING
What was the recruitment process like for you?
“The whole recruiting process was exciting but also challenging because I wanted to make sure I chose the right fit. Building relationships with the coaching staff, spending time on campus, and talking with my family, helped me realize Florida is where I belong. Once I made my decision, I felt a lot of peace because I knew it was the best place for me to grow as a player and as a person.”
Which school came in second for you?
“I’d say LSU. They recruited me hard, and I built a great relationship with their staff, but Florida just felt like home and gave me the best opportunity.”
What is the strangest thing that happened in the recruiting process?
“One of the funniest parts was how many random calls and messages I’d get every day. It definitely took some getting used to.”
What inspired you to start playing football?
“I’ve loved football since I was young. Watching the game growing up and wanting to compete inspired me to start playing, and I fell in love with it from there.”
What would you say are some of your greatest strengths as a football player?
“I think my work ethic, competitiveness, physicality, and willingness to do whatever the team needs are my biggest strengths.”
What is the most appealing part to you about the University of Florida?
“The coaching staff, the culture they’re building, the opportunity to compete in the SEC, and the way they develop players both on and off the field.”
What is your favorite football memory?
“Winning with my teammates and celebrating all the hard work we put in together is something I’ll always remember.”
Who from your recruiting class have you spoken with the most?
“I’ve talked with several guys in the class, and it’s been great getting to know everyone before we get on campus. I speak with everybody; we’re in a big group chat, mainly Ja’Bios [Smith] and Tre [Geathers].”
Which current Florida Gators players have you spoken with the most?
“I’ve talked with a few current players, and they’ve all been welcoming and honest about what it takes to succeed at Florida.”
Who are you looking forward to playing with or going against in practice?
“I’m excited to compete against everybody. Iron sharpens iron. Practicing against great players is only going to make me better.”
What is your favorite professional football team?
“Kansas City Chiefs.”
What did Coach Greg Gasparato tell you that stuck with you the most?
“He told me to focus on becoming the best version of myself every day and that everything else will take care of itself.”
What kind of player do the coaches believe you can become?
“They believe I can develop into an impact player who can help the team win games through hard work and consistent improvement.”
What are your goals as a freshman?
“My biggest goal is to earn the trust of my coaches and teammates, learn the playbook, improve every day, and contribute. Get on the field as much as possible.”
What part of your game are you working on the most?
“I’m focused on improving my technique, becoming more consistent, and continuing to develop physically and mentally.”
What should fans expect from you when you arrive on campus?
“They can expect someone who’s going to work hard every day, compete at a high level, represent Florida the right way, and do whatever it takes to help the team win.”
Do you have any funny moments or stories with Coach Jon Sumrall or Coach Greg Gasparato?
“One thing that stands out is how easy they are to talk to. They know when to be serious, but they also like to joke around, which made the recruiting process feel comfortable and genuine.”
PERSONAL
What is your major?
“Business.”
If you could play a sport outside of football, what would it be?
“Basketball.”
What is one thing Gator nation does not know about you?
“I’m very silly.”
What would be your first purchase if you got drafted in the first round of the NFL Draft?
“I honestly don’t know.”
You’re given the AUX in the locker room before a big game, what is your go-to song?
“Rylo (Exposed).”
What is your favorite movie?
“Paid In Full.”
What is your favorite flavor of Gatorade?
“Cool Blue.”
Do you play any video games? Which ones?
“Madden, Call of Duty, NCAA, 2K, UFC.”
What wild animal would you be, and why?
“Lion, I’m always on the hunt.”
What are you looking forward to in college outside of football?
“Football, that’s all.”
What do you want people to think when they hear the name Ellis McGaskin five years from now?
“He’s a dog.”
What advice do you have for young players dreaming of going to college?
“Keep grinding.”
What is your favorite quality in a teammate?
“Unselfish.”
What is your go-to pregame meal?
“Not a big eating guy before games.”
If you could have dinner with anybody from any point in history, who would it be, and why?
“Lebron James. He’s the goat!”
What three things are on your bucket list?
“Get rich, win the Super Bowl, win the National Championship.”
Apple Music or Spotify?
“Apple Music.”
Early bird or night owl?
“Night owl.”
Cats or dogs?
“Dogs.”
Quiet or outgoing?
“Outgoing.”
What’s your hidden talent?
“I can cook.”
What message do you have for Gator Nation?
“Let’s go win these championships!”
0 comments