Tim Tebow publicly endorsed Florida junior running back Jadan Baugh, calling him one of the elite offensive players in college football.
The former Gators quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner made the comments on behalf of SEC Nation in Gainesville ahead of Florida's home game against Ole Miss.
Baugh has powered the No. 21 Gators to a 3-0 start under head coach Jon Sumrall.
Through three games, he has rushed for 458 yards and an FBS-leading eight touchdowns on 54 carries, averaging 8.5 yards per attempt.
He also leads prediction markets such as Kalshi with a 40 percent chance to win the Doak Walker Award.
Tebow Praises Baugh's Mentality and Leadership
Tebow said Baugh's value goes beyond his rushing numbers, pointing to his mentality, grit, and toughness.
"For Jadan, I do think he's one of the best running backs in the country," Tebow said.
He added that Baugh has a chance to be one of the best players in the country and has shown it consistently.
Tebow emphasized that Baugh's physical approach and work ethic inspire the entire roster.
"He inspires you. The way he plays, it makes you want to be better.
I love that. It's contagious," Tebow said.
He noted that Baugh set an example upon joining the program as a freshman by becoming the strongest player on the team pound-for-pound.
"How does a running back make a D-line better? By playing like that.
Because you inspire other players," Tebow added.
Tebow also highlighted Baugh's confidence during Florida's 44-39 road win over Auburn, where the running back broke off a 53-yard touchdown run and struck the iconic Heisman pose.
"Some people do the [Heisman] pose out of hope. I love Jadan because he does it out of belief," Tebow said on SEC Network.
Tebow called Baugh one of his favorite players to watch and root for.
Looking ahead to Saturday's SEC game, Tebow predicted an intense environment in Gainesville for the top-25 matchup.
"I feel like there's a chance that the Swamp will be crazier than it's been in a long time.
Maybe since like 2019," Tebow said.
Baugh entered his junior year after a 2025 sophomore campaign with 1,168 rushing yards, 210 receiving yards, and 10 total touchdowns.
NFL draft analysts currently project him as a potential first-round selection in the 2027 NFL Draft, citing his size, durability, and ball security, with only one fumble in his collegiate career.
