The 2025 Florida high school football spring season kicks off today, bringing a host of inquiries about the dominant teams, emerging contenders, and other clubs across the state.
So, what exactly are we pondering? That’s what we’re here for! We’ve compiled a list of key questions and observations as Florida enters its high school spring football season.
Here are 50 aspects we’re eager to explore as 2025 Florida spring high school football begins:
1. The Derrick Gibson era kicks off at Miami Central, and we couldn’t be more excited.
2. Another new beginning is for former Miami Central head coach Jube Joseph, who steps into a coordinator role at St. Thomas Aquinas.
3. Venice, the 2024 Class 7A champions, need to address some key rebuilding, starting with their quarterback situation.
4. On the topic of 7A, Noah Grubbs (Notre Dame commit) embarks on his final high school spring.
5. Chaminade-Madonna is anticipated to boast one of the state’s most dynamic offenses, thanks to their returning players.
6. We can’t overlook Teddy Bridgewater’s squad at Miami Northwestern, where the quarterback competition among Leon Strawder and incumbent Niemann Lawrence is heating up.
7. Miami Edison appears to be bolstering its roster, especially with the recent transfer of Michael Clayton (Illinois commit).
8. With Scottie Littles exiting as head football coach at Sarasota Booker, this position has emerged as one of the most sought-after jobs in western Florida.
9. Lakeland has revamped its offensive lineup significantly, promising a different look this spring.
10. Jacquez Green and the Manatee Hurricanes are once again gearing up for a competitive season, especially with 2026 Logan Rogers on board.
11. Orlando The First Academy is on our radar as they tackle a challenging 2025 schedule, which includes a match against IMG Academy.
12. While Naples bids farewell to Shawn Simeon (Toledo signee), they consistently uncover new talent at running back. The identity of their next standout is a topic of interest.
13. Armwood quarterback Rhys Brush has made quite the impression, and a strong spring could elevate his profile. The Hawks aim to stay competitive in Class 6A this fall.
14. Patrick Browning’s inaugural season at Edgewater is generating anticipation, as many await what the former Pike Road (Alabama) leader will accomplish with the Eagles.
15. Despite feeling overlooked in Class 3A, Raines is fueled by a chip on their shoulder. This spring is all about honing their skills ahead of summer.
16. After clinching the Rural title in 2024, Madison County looks to expand their success under Price Harris. Their ability to defend their championship begins this spring with their returning talent.
17. Taking over as head coach at Niceville is no small feat for Richard Morgan, especially after the Eagles reached the 5A state semifinals. Expectations remain high under his leadership.
18. Cardinal Mooney is our sleeper pick from Class 2A. While they might not get as much buzz as other powerhouse teams, this squad is steadily building with impressive returning talent.
19. Speaking of 2A, it’s time to discuss Cocoa. Despite the graduations of Brady Hart and Jayvan Boggs, the Tigers face a significant challenge ahead, and this spring will provide crucial insights into their progress.
20. The Miami Norland Vikings are embracing life after Ennio Yapoor with Kai Moore stepping in at quarterback. With Moore at the helm, they shouldn’t experience a major decline.
21. Among the standout players from last season in the Florida Panhandle was Choctawhatchee running back Von Keller. We believe he has the potential to become the next great tailback from the 850 area.
22. While Michael Clayton Jr.’s move to Miami Edison is a loss for Sanford Seminole, we’re confident the ‘Noles will rebound just fine.
23. How will Bartow interim head coach Grady Morrell handle his responsibilities this spring? Could this lead to him securing the full-time position post-spring?
24. Clearwater Central Catholic could be one of the more overlooked teams due to their significant graduations. Expect this team to utilize the spring and their matchup against Palmetto to demonstrate their resilience in Class.
25. Andrew Whittemore appears to be stepping into the role of starting quarterback at Buchholz with Trace Johnson now taking his talents to California.
26. Glades Central was the surprise team of 2024, under alum Omar Haugabook. What strategies will the Raiders implement this spring to elevate their game?
27. Columbus is gearing up for a spring season aimed at returning to the 7A title game. They’re set to challenge themselves in an upcoming match against West Boca Raton on May 16th.
28. Apopka has faced hurdles over the past few seasons after their appearance in the 2022 Class 4M state championship. Will they find a way to regain their former success?
29. St. Augustine will welcome several new offensive players as multiple starters, including quarterback Locklan Hewlett, have graduated.
30. Vero Beach’s Champ ‘Wonderful’ Monds has emerged as one of the state’s premier quarterbacks during the offseason.
31. Bradford experienced a slight setback last season after an early exit in the regional semifinals. However, the Tornadoes are set to rebound with a wealth of returning talent in 2A.
32. Mosley is facing the challenge of replacing some pivotal starters from its district championship team, and Tommy Joe Whiddon will need to find new standout players for the Dolphins.
33. Bolles boasts a highly skilled offense returning this spring, and it promises to be an exciting matchup when the Bulldogs face Mandarin on May 22nd.
34. Cardinal Newman is a team that we believe could make it to the 1A title game this fall. The Crusaders are making progress this spring, putting that goal within reach.
35. Rick Darlington’s DeLand Bulldogs are close to becoming state title contenders and feature an emerging star in 2028 recruit Taihj Moore.
36. Ocala Vanguard has shown significant promise this spring in 7-on-7 action, and the Knights are expected to be a formidable team out of Mid-Central Florida once again.
37. Mandarin may have lost considerable talent, but the Mustangs have intriguing players to watch, including quarterback Knox Annis from the 2028 class.
38. Dylan Potts has built a powerhouse at West Boca Raton, and this spring offers a glimpse of just how well the Bulls have improved since clinching the Class 6A title.
39. We are genuinely excited to see what Arthur Lewis IV will accomplish at running back for Bartram Trail.
40. Sebring remains competitive with LaVaar Scott leading the way. This season, he’ll be backed by a more seasoned squad, positioning the Blue Streaks for a stronger campaign following a challenging 2024.
41. Columbia is entering its second season under Brian Allen, who, judging by the competitive schedule he has laid out for 2025, anticipates improvement from last fall.
42. As Jerrime Bell begins his second year at Daytona Beach Mainland, the Buccaneers appear to possess ample talent. Can Bell guide his team back to the high level that Travis Roland had them at before moving to Camden County (Georgia)?
43. Plant has seemingly improved every season under Hank Brown. With the departure of key players like Waltez Clark, will the Panthers maintain their upward trajectory?
44. Tallahassee Lincoln is a program with a history of excellence. Following changes in leadership, will the Trojans continue to stand out as the top team in the state capital?
45. Kevin Mays’ transition from Baker County to Palm Bay has certainly raised eyebrows. The Pirates are counting on Mays to spearhead a comeback this spring.
46. Keep an eye on Lake Region; we believe Jermain King has plans brewing in the 863. The addition of Jayden McCutchen, who transferred from Fort Meade, will be pivotal for the Thunder.
47. We must also mention one of the state’s leading rushing offenses from last year, the Key West Conchs. While they graduated Jaden Fox, Walson Morin is expected to step up significantly this season.
48. Tom McHugh’s return to Pasco is an intriguing reappointment. Will he be able to reignite the enthusiasm in Dade City?
49. Let’s also touch on another Pasco County team: What does Zephyrhills look like now that DJ Pickett has moved on?
50. I believe we’ve covered enough teams for now. Let’s get this show on the road, Sunshine State!
