A new era of investment
Florida’s football program has made a bold move by appointing Buster Faulkner as its new offensive coordinator, a position that comes with a guaranteed $2.1 million salary for the 2026 fiscal year and a potential escalation to $2.3 million by 2028. Faulkner, who most recently guided Georgia Tech’s offense to an 11th‑national ranking, is celebrated for his Air Raid philosophy that emphasizes speed and spacing. His tenure at Georgia Tech also resulted in four player transfers to the Gators, a ripple effect that could reshape the roster.
On the other side of the ball, Brad White was secured as defensive coordinator at a base salary of $1.85 million, with a possible rise to $2.05 million by 2028. White brings a reputation for turning defenses into aggressive, turnover‑generating units, and his contract mirrors the aggressive investment the school is making across both sides of the ball.
The financial commitments extend beyond the coordinators. Gerald Chatman, the highest‑paid position coach, will command $950,000 in 2026, while offensive line mentor Phil Trautwein is set to earn $750,000. A host of other assistants, including strength coach Rusty Whitt at $550,000, round out a staff whose compensation ranges from $350,000 to $600,000, reflecting a comprehensive effort to retain experienced talent.
These agreements come amid a broader reshaping of the Gators’ coaching landscape. The full coaching roster includes names such as Jon Sumrall, Aaron Philo, Bailey Stockton, Luke Harpring, Harrison Moore, Joe Craddock, Greg Gasparato, Chris Collins, Brandon Harris, Marcus Davis, Chris Foster, Trent McKnight, Evan McKissack, Johnathan Galante, Bam Hardmon, and Rusty Whitt, underscoring the depth of experience the program is assembling.