The adult in Florida's secondary. Thornton has started for three years and gotten better each one — 34 tackles, then 41 with 3 interceptions, then a 2025 line of 56 tackles, 6 breakups, an interception and a forced fumble — and the program handed him the No. 1 jersey, its internal stamp for its best defensive back. He has been durable, steady and productive against SEC receiving talent every single week, and the trend line is the argument. However, the frame is 5-10 and the 2025 takeaway count was one, so the profile reads dependable eraser more than splash producer — and the league pays for splash at safety. Another season pairing 2024's ball production with 2025's tackle volume changes the conversation. As it stands, a Day 3 pick in the 2027 class whose floor — special teams plus trustworthy depth — is exactly what gets him drafted.

• Sports Illustrated Oct 13, 2022

  Scouting Report: Gators DB Commit Bryce Thornton - Sports Illustrated