Vernon Hargreaves III, a standout cornerback who helped shape the University of Florida’s defensive legacy, will be inducted into the UF Athletic Hall of Fame during the 2026 ceremony. His upcoming enshrinement reflects a career that blended college dominance with a six‑year run in the NFL.
A Defensive Maestro in College
During his three seasons with the Gators from 2013 to 2015, Hargreaves started 35 of 37 games and amassed 121 tackles, 10 interceptions and 28 pass breakups. The SEC recognized his impact with three first‑team All‑SEC selections and two first‑team All‑American honors, while his junior year placed him as a finalist for the prestigious Jim Thorpe Award.
The Buccaneers drafted him in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft, and he subsequently spent six seasons in professional football, contributing to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Houston Texans and Cincinnati Bengals. His transition from college standout to NFL veteran underscores a rare blend of durability and on‑field intelligence.
A Hall of Fame Class Celebrating Excellence
Hargreaves will be joined in the 2026 class by gymnastics champion Bridget Sloan, swimmer Kelsey Stewart, basketball legend Vernon Maxwell and rising star Andrew Moten. The induction banquet, set for October 9, will precede the Gators’ home game against South Carolina, providing a weekend of celebration for alumni, fans and the broader university community.
The honor reflects the university’s commitment to recognizing athletes whose performances have left an indelible mark on Florida’s sports history. By spotlighting both historic figures and contemporary trailblazers, the Hall of Fame aims to inspire future generations of Gators to pursue excellence on and off the field.