Jacksonville: FLORIDA-GEORGIA HALL OF FAME TO INDUCT FOUR GREATS
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The Florida-Georgia Hall of Fame will celebrate four standout players with their induction into the Hall of Fame on Friday, October 31, 2025. The prestigious Induction Ceremony and Luncheon, presented by Miller Electric Company, will take place at 12:30 pm at Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront, a new location for this event, as part of the Florida-Georgia Weekend.

This year's inductees include Florida Gator greats Brandon James and Todd Johnson, alongside Georgia Bulldog stars Freddie Gilbert and Sony Michel. These four players will be recognized for their exceptional contributions to the storied rivalry between the two programs.

University of Florida

Brandon James, Florida Gator 2006-2009

Brandon James carved out a place as one of the most electric return specialists in SEC history. Appearing in 50 career games for the Gators, he set four SEC and 11 Florida records, including career kickoff return yards (2,718), career punt return yards (1,371), most total kick returns (229), and most total return yardage (4,089). James is one of only two Gators ever to return both a punt and a kickoff for a touchdown, finishing his career with five total return scores. His explosiveness and consistency made him one of the most dangerous special teams players in the nation, finishing third among active NCAA players in return touchdowns at the time of his graduation.

James' honors include 2008 SEC Special Teams Player of the Year, FWAA All-America, and multiple All-SEC selections. He was a critical piece of Florida's success during the Urban Meyer era, helping the Gators capture two SEC Championships and the 2008 BCS National Championship. Beyond his record-breaking returns, he contributed as a receiver and rusher, finishing with more than 700 yards of combined offense and four additional touchdowns. Known for his game-changing speed and playmaking ability, James remains one of Florida's most decorated and impactful special teams players of all time.

Todd Johnson, Florida Gator 1999-2002

Todd Johnson was a cornerstone of the Gators' secondary from 1999–2002, starting 35 games and appearing in 47 overall. A two-time First-Team All-SEC selection (2000–01) and Second-Team pick in 2002, he anchored the Florida defense through four bowl games, including the Sugar, Orange, and Outback Bowls. Johnson tallied 284 career tackles, 40 "big plays" (including nine interceptions, eight fumble recoveries, and three blocked kicks), and led the team in total plays for back-to-back seasons. His 102 tackles and five interceptions in 2000 highlighted one of the best defensive campaigns by a Gator safety in program history.

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Off the field, Johnson earned SEC Academic Honor Roll recognition, reflecting his leadership and consistency both in the classroom and on the field. Selected by the Chicago Bears in the fourth round of the 2003 NFL Draft, he went on to play seven seasons in the NFL with the Bears, Rams, and Bills. Across his professional career, Johnson appeared in 80 games and totaled 196 tackles, along with two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and a sack. Known for his reliability, toughness, and impact in big moments, Johnson's legacy remains as one of Florida's most complete and dependable defensive backs.

University of Georgia

Freddie Gilbert, Georgia Bulldog 1980-1983

Freddie Gilbert was a dominant defensive force for Georgia during one of the most successful eras in program history. A native of Griffin, Ga., Gilbert went 4–0 against Florida during his career, anchoring the defense in memorable wins such as the 44–0 shutout in 1982 and the narrow 10–9 victory in 1983. Known for stepping up in big games, he tallied eight tackles with three for loss against Florida in 1981, prompting head coach Vince Dooley to call his performance "outstanding." Over four seasons, Gilbert recorded 233 tackles, 26 sacks (sixth all-time at Georgia), and set the school's single-game sack record with five against Temple in 1983. A two-time All-SEC selection and 1983 All-American, Gilbert helped Georgia capture the 1980 national championship and three straight SEC titles.

Following college, Gilbert went on to play professionally in both the USFL and NFL. He began with the New Jersey Generals, teaming up with fellow Bulldog legend Herschel Walker before joining the Denver Broncos. Gilbert played four NFL seasons, highlighted by appearances in Super Bowl XXI and XXII with the Broncos. His blend of power, consistency, and championship pedigree made him one of Georgia's most impactful defensive linemen of the early 1980s.

Sony Michel, Georgia Bulldog 2014-2017

Sony Michel cemented his legacy in Georgia football history with explosive performances in rivalry games and on the national stage. A South Florida native, Michel closed out his Georgia-Florida series career in style, rushing for 137 yards and two long touchdowns in the Bulldogs' 42–7 victory in 2017. Over four seasons, he compiled 3,638 rushing yards, 33 touchdowns, and more than 600 receiving yards, becoming one of just a few Bulldogs to record multiple 1,000-yard seasons. Ranked No. 3 on Georgia's all-time rushing list, he served as a two-time permanent captain and was instrumental in leading the Bulldogs to the 2017 SEC Championship and their first College Football Playoff appearance.

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Michel's senior season proved historic, highlighted by his 181-yard, three-touchdown performance in the Rose Bowl to send Georgia to the National Championship Game. His college success carried into the NFL, where he was drafted in the first round by the New England Patriots in 2018. Michel won two Super Bowls in five seasons—scoring the only touchdown in the Patriots' Super Bowl LIII victory and later capturing another title with the Los Angeles Rams in 2022. He retired with 3,243 career rushing yards and 18 touchdowns in the NFL.

"Jacksonville has served as the stage for the Florida-Georgia rivalry since 1933," said Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan. "As we gear up for this year's game, we are proud to honor some of the players who have contributed to the legacy of this cherished tradition. Our entire city congratulates the honorees, and we look forward to celebrating them."

Tickets for the 2025 Florida-Georgia Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Luncheon presented by Miller Electric Company, at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront, are on sale now at https://flgajax.com/hall_of_fame/.

About the Florida-Georgia Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Luncheon presented by Miller Electric Company: Established in 1995, the Florida-Georgia Hall of Fame celebrates the remarkable players, coaches, and administrators who have shaped one of college football's most enduring rivalries. Over its 29-year history, the Hall of Fame has honored more than 100 distinguished individuals, including iconic Gators like Steve Spurrier, Danny Wuerffel, Tim Tebow, and Fred Taylor, as well as legendary Bulldogs such as Vince Dooley, Herschel Walker, David Pollack, and Knowshon Moreno.

About the City of Jacksonville Office of Sports and Entertainment: The City of Jacksonville Office of Sports and Entertainment attracts, hosts, and creates opportunities that drive economic impact, accelerate the Jacksonville brand, and improve the quality of life and cultural engagement for visitors and residents. Jacksonville hosts hundreds of diverse events yearly, making Northeast Florida a premier destination with rich tradition and world-class hospitality. For more information, visit events.coj.net.

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