The Florida Gators added a noteworthy piece to their 2026 recruiting class, as three-star defensive lineman pledged his commitment to Billy Napier’s program. While he may not carry a top-tier ranking, his sheer size — 6-foot-4 and 360 pounds — makes him a fascinating prospect with major upside in the trenches.
“BREAKING: Class of 2026 DL has Committed to Florida, he tells me for @on3recruits,” reported Hayes Fawcett. “The 6’4, 360-pound DL from Cleveland, OH picked the Gators over Ohio State, Vanderbilt, and Wisconsin.”
His frame and raw power could make him a disruptive force on Florida’s defensive front in the future. Despite being under the radar in recruiting circles, his potential has drawn the attention of several major programs, making his decision to choose Florida a notable win for the coaching staff.
Following his announcement, Perez delivered a confident and energetic message to Gator Nation:
“In the Swamp, let’s get to it!! I’m Home!”
With that, Florida secures a massive addition — in both presence and potential — for its future defensive line.
Jamir Perez is rated as a three-star prospect by 247Sports, currently ranked No. 640 nationally in the 2026 recruiting class. He also checks in as the No. 74 defensive lineman in the country and the 27th overall player in the state of Ohio. Perez plays at Glenville High School in Cleveland, and the Gators pulling him out of Ohio State’s own backyard is a significant recruiting win. Despite the Buckeyes being a finalist, Perez ultimately chose to take his talents to Gainesville.
Perez draws early comparisons to former Florida defensive tackle Desmond Watson, who recently signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent. Like Perez, Watson came to Florida as a three-star recruit and was known for his massive size — standing 6’5″ and weighing 380 pounds. Though many doubted his speed and mobility, Watson still found a path to the NFL, a journey that could serve as inspiration for Perez.
While Perez isn’t quite as large as Watson, he still brings intimidating size and strength to the defensive front. His physicality and playing style mirror Watson’s, and it’s encouraging for Perez to see someone with a similar build carve out a professional opportunity. That precedent could give the young lineman extra motivation as he prepares to make his mark in the SEC.
With Perez’s commitment, Florida’s 2026 recruiting class now ranks 73rd nationally. He’s just the second prospect to join the Gators’ class so far, and while it’s been a slow start, last year’s top-tier finish shows the staff knows how to close strong. With a full slate of official visits scheduled and the bulk of commitments typically arriving later in the recruiting cycle, there’s no need for Gator fans to hit the panic button just yet.