FLORIDA GATORS BRING BACK PERCY HARVIN AS OFFENSIVE SPEED COORDINATOR – EXPLOSIVE PLAYMAKER RETURNS ON $1.5 MILLION ANNUAL DEAL….READ MORE…..
The Florida Gators have taken another step toward rekindling their championship roots by announcing the return of electrifying former star Percy Harvin. One of the most dynamic players in program history, Harvin has been hired as the team’s new Offensive Speed Coordinator, a role created to maximize offensive explosiveness and elevate skill position performance. His return comes with a $1.5 million annual contract, a strong statement of faith in Harvin’s ability to shape the next generation of Gator playmakers.
The announcement was made official Tuesday afternoon during a press conference at the Heavener Football Training Center in Gainesville, where Athletic Director Scott Stricklin and Head Coach Billy Napier introduced Harvin to a room filled with media, alumni, and current players.
“This is more than a hire—it’s a homecoming,” Napier said. “Percy Harvin represents a golden era of Florida football, and now he returns to help us build something even greater.”
Harvin, 36, looked both excited and focused as he addressed the media, wearing a Florida Gators polo shirt and standing beside Coach Napier.
“I’ve always said, if I ever came back to football, it would be here,” Harvin said. “This place changed my life, and I’m ready to do the same for these young men. Speed was my game, and now it’s my mission to bring that energy back to the Swamp.”
As Offensive Speed Coordinator, Harvin will oversee wide receivers and running backs with an emphasis on acceleration, agility, route precision, and open-field creativity. He’ll also work alongside offensive coordinator Rob Sale in designing plays that capitalize on mismatches and increase Florida’s tempo in both practice and live games.
“Percy’s football IQ is off the charts,” said Sale. “But what’s even more valuable is his understanding of how to turn raw talent into game-breaking production.”
Harvin’s career at Florida was nothing short of spectacular. From 2006 to 2008, he helped lead the Gators to two national championships under former head coach Urban Meyer. Known for his speed, versatility, and game-changing ability, Harvin racked up over 3,700 all-purpose yards and 32 total touchdowns, often lining up at both receiver and running back.
“I remember the roar of the Swamp when Percy touched the ball,” Napier said. “Now our players will learn directly from that level of greatness.”
Harvin’s impact extended to the NFL, where he was drafted in the first round by the Minnesota Vikings in 2009. He later won a Super Bowl with the Seattle Seahawks and became known for one of the most iconic kickoff returns in championship history.
Though he stepped away from the game due to injuries and health issues, Harvin has stayed connected to the sport through youth mentorship, private coaching, and motivational speaking. This new role marks his official return to collegiate football—and to the program where his legend was born.
“This isn’t just a coaching role for Percy,” said Athletic Director Stricklin. “This is a mentorship role. These players are going to learn what it means to be elite on and off the field.”
Fans erupted with excitement across social media platforms following the announcement, using hashtags like #PercyReturns, #SpeedInTheSwamp, and #GatorGreatness. The university’s football program saw a spike in engagement, with former players and NFL stars chiming in to celebrate the move.
“This is a huge win for Florida,” tweeted former Gator quarterback Tim Tebow. “Percy is one of the best I ever played with. These young guys are about to learn from a true master.”
The $1.5 million contract reflects the university’s investment in innovation, alumni legacy, and competitive advantage. Harvin’s duties will also include recruiting, particularly in talent-rich regions like South Florida where his name still carries weight.
“I’ve been where these kids are,” Harvin said. “I know the pressure, I know the dreams—and I know what it takes. My job is to help them unlock it, every single day.”
Coach Napier emphasized that Harvin’s role is designed to evolve over time, potentially positioning him for future promotions within the staff.
“There’s no ceiling here,” Napier said. “We’re building a program that empowers greatness from within—and Percy is a prime example of that.”
As the Florida Gators look ahead to the 2025 season, the return of Percy Harvin adds a potent dose of speed, legacy, and inspiration. And for Gator Nation, it’s not just a blast from the past—it’s a bold leap into the future.
