With Chimere Dike and Elijhah Badger no longer on the Florida Gators roster, head coach Billy Napier sought reinforcements for the 2025 season. One key addition was former UCLA wide receiver J. Michael Sturdivant, who transferred to Florida during the winter portal period.
Sturdivant, who brings valuable experience for quarterback DJ Lagway, has already stood out in spring camp. ESPN recently named him Florida’s top transfer in its Way-Too-Early Top 25 Rankings. Notably, Napier revealed that Sturdivant hit some impressive numbers during practice.
J. Michael Sturdivant Clocked 23 MPH During First Camp With Gators
Florida’s wide receiver room welcomed a significant addition this offseason with the arrival of UCLA transfer Sturdivant. The experienced pass catcher previously played at Cal and UCLA, compiling an impressive 1,667 receiving yards over his college career. His impact has already been felt during the Gators’ spring camp.
Napier recently revealed that Sturdivant clocked an impressive 23 mph in practice, showcasing his rare combination of speed and size. According to Dylan Olive, Napier shared:
“Impressive detail from Billy Napier’s press conference today: UCLA transfer J. Michael Sturdivant has hit 23 MPH in camp already while being listed at 6’2.5 and 216 pounds.”
Impressive detail from Billy Napier’s press conference today: UCLA transfer J. Michael Sturdivant has hit 23 MPH in camp already while being listed at 6’2.5 and 216 pounds.
Speed and size definitely impressive so far.
— Dylan Olive (@DylanOlive_UF) March 6, 2025
Sturdivant’s arrival is crucial for Florida’s offense, especially with Lagway currently limited by shoulder and lower body concerns. Developing the Gators’ receiver group has become a key focus in camp. Napier expressed confidence in Sturdivant’s potential, stating:
“I’m excited about J. Michael. I think he’s got a chance to bring some things to the table there.”
ESPN’s Max Olson highlighted Sturdivant as Florida’s top transfer this offseason, recognizing his playmaking skills and experience. Olson noted:
“The Gators needed to add help at wide receiver for quarterback DJ Lagway after their two top wideouts graduated. Sturdivant is a proven playmaker.”
“The 6-foot-3, 205-pound redshirt senior will bring veteran leadership to a receiver room full of promising blue-chip talent, including Eugene Wilson III, Aidan Mizell, and top-50 incoming recruits Vernell Brown III and Dallas Wilson,” Olson added.
The Texas native has logged 123 career receptions for 1,667 yards and 13 touchdowns across three seasons with Cal and UCLA. Known for his ability to stretch the field, Sturdivant boasts 12 career games with a reception of 30 yards or longer.
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Ranked as Florida’s highest-rated transfer, Sturdivant holds a four-star rating and is the No. 111 overall transfer. His deep-threat potential and veteran presence will complement Florida’s young talents like Wilson III, Mizell, and incoming recruits Brown and Wilson.
Before the 2024 season, Phil Steele projected Sturdivant as the 16th-best receiver for the 2025 NFL Draft.
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