Florida Football Adds Former Baylor Defensive Lineman Brendan Bett via Transfer Portal
Gainesville, FL – April 27, 2025
The Florida Gators have taken another significant step toward bolstering their defense ahead of the 2025 season by adding former Baylor defensive lineman Brendan Bett through the NCAA transfer portal. Bett’s arrival marks an important addition for a Florida team looking to rebuild its defensive front after key departures in recent months.
A Promising Talent from Texas
Brendan Bett, a native of Killeen, Texas, emerged as a highly regarded prospect during his high school career at Ellison High School. Known for his imposing size — standing 6-foot-5 and weighing around 280 pounds — and natural athleticism, Bett became one of the more sought-after defensive linemen in his recruiting class. His combination of strength, quickness off the ball, and high football IQ earned him numerous accolades and attention from programs across the country.
After committing to Baylor, Bett spent time developing his craft at the collegiate level. Though his time with the Bears did not see him emerge as a full-time starter, his potential remained obvious to coaches and scouts alike. Now, he will bring that potential to Gainesville, where the Gators plan to maximize his talents and give him the opportunity to thrive.
Why Florida?
For Bett, Florida represents a fresh start and an opportunity to play a more prominent role. The Gators, under head coach Billy Napier, have made it a priority this offseason to enhance the depth and talent of the defensive line, an area that has seen several notable departures through the transfer portal and the NFL Draft.
The Gators’ defensive scheme, which emphasizes versatility and aggressiveness up front, should be a natural fit for Bett’s skill set. His ability to play multiple techniques along the defensive line gives Florida flexibility in how they deploy their front seven, something the coaching staff has been emphasizing as they retool the defense.
With spring practices underway and summer workouts approaching, Bett will have ample opportunity to earn a key role. His size and strength immediately make him a candidate to see action in Florida’s defensive tackle rotation, and with continued development, he could push for even more significant playing time.
Filling a Crucial Need
Florida’s need for reinforcements along the defensive line has been no secret. After losing several players to the portal and graduation, including veterans who played key snaps over the past few seasons, the Gators entered the offseason determined to replenish the trenches with experienced players.
Bett’s arrival is not just about adding another body; it’s about bringing in a player who has experience at the Power Five level and the physical tools to make an impact. While he may still be considered a developmental prospect by some, there is a sense inside the program that with the right coaching and environment, Bett could blossom into a difference-maker.
Defensive line coach Gerald Chatman and the defensive staff are excited about the opportunity to work with Bett, believing his ceiling remains high. The plan is to integrate him slowly but purposefully into the system, allowing him to learn the nuances of Florida’s defensive playbook while leaning on his natural instincts and power.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Season
As Florida looks to rebound from an up-and-down 2024 campaign, the infusion of new talent like Bett will be critical to the program’s success. The SEC remains the toughest conference in college football, and battles in the trenches often determine the outcome of games. For the Gators to achieve their goals this fall — competing for an SEC East title and returning to a major bowl game — dominating the line of scrimmage will be key.
Brendan Bett joins a roster that is quietly assembling a strong mix of experienced transfers, returning veterans, and promising freshmen. If he can seize the opportunity presented to him and develop as expected, Bett could become an important piece of Florida’s defensive identity moving forward.
Fans should keep a close eye on Bett throughout the summer and into fall camp, as his progress could play a pivotal role in shaping the Gators’ defensive fortunes. His story will be one to watch as Florida continues building a team capable of contending in the nation’s toughest conference.
