Florida football sets cornerback starters for opening week

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 4, 2026, 11:30 PM

Last updated Sep 4, 2026

Florida football sets cornerback starters for opening week
Summary

Florida enters the 2026 season with Ben Hanks III and Cormani McClain confirmed as starting cornerbacks. The team seeks to replace departed draft pick Devin Moore while relying on a mix of veteran experience and emerging young players. McClain, entering his fourth college season, joins Hanks at the top of the depth chart following a period of offseason development. Dijon Johnson and J'Vari Flowers will serve as primary backups, bringing significant game experience to the secondary. New defensive staff members, including coach Brandon Harris, have overseen the group's transition during camp. The team faces the task of balancing rotation depth with individual consistency as they prepare for the schedule ahead.

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Status Watch
  • Ben Hanks III and Cormani McClain are the listed starters for Week 1.
  • Dijon Johnson and J'Vari Flowers provide depth as the primary second-team cornerbacks.
  • Brandon Harris joins the staff to lead the cornerback position group.
  • Cormani McClain recorded 18 tackles and one interception during the 2025 season.
  • Ben Hanks III earned his first collegiate interception during the 2025 finale against Florida State.
Latest Updates
  • 11:30 PMYahoo SportsFlorida football position preview: CBs blend upside, experience
What they're saying
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Ben Hanks III and Cormani McClain lead a Florida cornerback room that returns several experienced contributors and adds veteran depth.

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