New Miami safeties coach Will Harris posted a goodbye statement to Florida on social media on Friday.
In a significant move within collegiate football, Will Harris, the former secondary coach for the Florida Gators, has transitioned to a new role with the Miami Hurricanes. This change, announced in mid-February 2025, has stirred discussions among fans and analysts, especially given Harris’s heartfelt farewell to the Florida community.
A Brief Tenure at Florida
Will Harris joined the University of Florida’s coaching staff in December 2023, bringing with him experience from his role as an assistant secondary coach with the Los Angeles Chargers earlier that year. At 36, Harris was poised to make a significant impact on the Gators’ defense. During the 2024 season, under his guidance, the Gators’ secondary showed marked improvement, addressing previous vulnerabilities in their pass defense. His coaching was instrumental in refining the skills of the defensive backs, contributing to a more robust defensive lineup.
The Transition to Miami
The announcement of Harris’s move to the Miami Hurricanes came as a surprise to many, given his relatively short stint with the Gators. Reports indicate that Miami’s head coach, Mario Cristobal, actively pursued Harris to strengthen the Hurricanes’ defensive coaching staff. This strategic hire aims to address the challenges Miami faced in their secondary during the 2024 season, where they allowed an average of 320 passing yards per game against formidable opponents like California and Louisville.
Harris’s Emotional Farewell
Upon finalizing his decision, Harris took to social media to express his gratitude and emotions regarding his departure from Florida. In a heartfelt message posted on X (formerly Twitter), he stated:
> “First and foremost, I would like to thank Billy Napier and Scott Stricklin for giving me the opportunity to coach at The University of Florida. Billy – As they say, the ones who bleed together are brothers. We went through the trenches last year and pulled out one hell of a finish. With that being said, I understand business is business, and you have to do what you believe is best for the University of Florida’s football program. I appreciate you.”
This message underscores the respect and camaraderie Harris felt towards his colleagues and the institution, highlighting the bittersweet nature of his departure.
Implications for Florida and Miami
For the Florida Gators, Harris’s departure signifies the loss of a coach who had begun to make a positive impact on their defensive strategies. The task now falls to head coach Billy Napier and athletic director Scott Stricklin to identify a successor who can build upon the foundation Harris established.
Conversely, the Miami Hurricanes stand to benefit from Harris’s expertise. His prior experience in the NFL and recent success with the Gators position him as a valuable asset in addressing Miami’s defensive challenges. Harris’s familiarity with Florida’s defensive schemes could also provide Miami with strategic advantages, especially in matchups against their in-state rivals.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on how both programs adapt to these changes. The Gators will aim to maintain, if not enhance, their defensive performance despite the coaching transition. Meanwhile, the Hurricanes are optimistic that Harris’s arrival will fortify their secondary, transforming previous weaknesses into strengths.
In the dynamic world of college football, coaching shifts like this one underscore the ever-evolving strategies programs employ to achieve excellence. Will Harris’s move from Florida to Miami not only highlights his professional journey but also sets the stage for intriguing developments in the upcoming season.
