Gators get another On3 RPM pick for blue-chip legacy CB

The good news kept rolling in this week for Florida football’s recruiting efforts as Billy Napier and Co. continue to grind away at the 2025 cycle.

On Tuesday, the Gators earned a recruiting prediction machine pick from On3’s Corey Bender for legacy four-star cornerback Ben Hanks Jr. — son of Ben Hanks Sr. who played linebacker for the Orange and Blue back in the 1990s under Steve Spurrier — out of Miami (Fla.) Booker T. Washington.

“Hanks is the son of former Florida Gators linebacker Ben Hanks, but it’s also worth noting his sister attended UF,” Bender points out. “Those connections to the university are strong and were at the center of attention during Hanks’ official visit, as Steve Spurrier joined the family for one of the dinners. Reliving the father’s path that weekend made an impact and was a nostalgic experience for the family.

“Altogether, Hanks spent nearly a handful of days in Gainesville last month after taking an official visit and then returning for 7v7. That second visit was needed, but the OV is what catapulted Florida to the next level. Hanks hadn’t been on campus for nearly a year before then. I’m hearing NIL is a strong factor too.”

Florida’s other RPM pick

Last week, On3’s Keith Niehbur also submitted an RPM pick for the Gators in pursuit of Hanks; the pick was based on several factors with a medium confidence level.

“I’m looking for the culture, the environment, the coaching staff, just a place I can call home. I’m looking at the development part of it, the education part of it. That’s two of the top things.” Hanks recently told Rusty Mansell of On3.

“With my dad going here, they’ll always be a good school — a good fit with me,” Hanks also offered after an unofficial visit in late June.

“They’re just rebuilding to get back to that standard. Florida is a great program. I love the coaches here. They show me love. And it’s a good environment.”

Recruiting Summary

Hanks is ranked No. 101 overall and No. 12 at his position nationally on the 247Sports composite while the On3 industry ranking has him at No. 99 and No. 11, respectively.

On3’s recruiting prediction machine has Florida way out front for his talents with an 94.0% chance of landing him, while the Miami Hurricanes (2.8%) and Georgia Bulldogs (1.1%) trail far behind.

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