Five‑star offensive tackle Maxwell Hiller, ranked No. 7 overall in the SC Next Junior 300, pledged to Florida on Wednesday after a March visit. The 6‑ft‑5, 305‑lb lineman from Coatesville, Pennsylvania, became the highest‑ranked recruit to sign under first‑year coach Jon Sumrall and a key early win for the program.

Hiller’s decision follows Sumrall’s arrival last year, when Florida struggled to land top offensive tackles. The Gators had only three Inside‑300 tackles in five classes under former coach Billy Napier. Hiller becomes the program’s highest‑ranked OT since Martez Ivey in 2015 and represents a turning point for the program’s future.

Phil Trautwein, the ex‑Penn State offensive line coach now on Florida’s staff, had recruited Hiller since middle school. Hiller cited the long‑standing relationship and comfort at Gainesville as decisive. He also declined offers from Alabama, Ohio State, South Carolina and Tennessee while staying focused on the Gators’ program for the season.

With Hiller on board, Florida eyes other top linemen like Kennedy Brown and Mark Matthews. The Gators also contend for four‑star quarterback Davin Davidson. Hiller’s commitment signals a shift in the recruiting race, giving Sumrall a stronger foundation heading into the 2027 recruiting season for a more competitive program.