1. Deonte Thompson – Wide Receiver, Redshirt Sophomore
If Thompson plays as well as he did this spring in the fall, then he will definitely be a go-to-guy for the Gators and one of the top receivers in the SEC. Entering into his third year, it’s about time for him to emerge, and he did just that this spring. Although Deonte did drop a few balls, he has out-performed all of the Gator receivers. He has made spectacular plays all spring, ranging from overhead catches to shoestring or diving catches.

2. Sam Robey – Center, Redshirt Freshman
This guy has to be the most improved player this spring. He has opened up a lot of eyes. He went from being a redshirt/injured freshman last year to being the starting center this year. He compelled an All-SEC caliber center, Maurkice Pouncey, to move back to guard along with his brother, guard Mike Pouncey. Robey deserves the starting spot. He has worked his butt off in practice. Along with textbook footwork, Sam has very quick hands and is very strong.

3. John Brantley – Redshirt Sophomore
If Tebow would’ve gone to the NFL this year, Brantley would be the starter for sure. He’s ready to start now but will be forced to play the back-up role again this year. He is a heck of a back-up though. This spring, Brantley had a “coming-out party”, showing off his arm strength and accuracy.  He has finally started to look like a SEC quarterback.

4. Jaye Howard – Redshirt Sophomore
Because of the injuries on the defensive line, Howard has gotten a lot of reps. I believe he would’ve stood out even if everybody on the defensive line was healthy. Moving from a defensive end to defensive tackle, he is up to 305 pounds now and 6′3″. What a beast! And the crazy thing about it is that Howard hasn’t lost any quickness from when he played defensive end. If he’s not a starter in the fall he will surely get a lot of playing time.

Other impressive players: RB Chris Scott, RB Emmanuel Moody, WR Frankie Hammond, LB Jon Bostic, CB Adrian Bushnell, S Will Hill