Countdown to Kickoff: Legendary Gators Who Made No. 90 Iconic

As the 2025 college football season approaches, the Florida Gators are gearing up for another exciting campaign. One of the most storied numbers in Gators history is No. 90, worn by some of the most formidable defensive players to ever grace the field. From the late 1980s to the present day, No. 90 has been synonymous with dominance, tenacity, and game-changing plays. Let’s take a look at the legendary Gators who have donned this iconic number and left an indelible mark on the program.

Huey Richardson (1986–1990)

Huey Richardson is perhaps the most celebrated player to wear No. 90 for the Florida Gators. A defensive end from Atlanta, Georgia, Richardson was a two-time First-Team All-SEC selection and earned First-Team All-American honors in 1990. He set a program single-season sack record in 1989 with 12.5 sacks and finished his career with 26.5 sacks, ranking second in school history at the time. Richardson was drafted in the first round of the 1991 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he played for two seasons before continuing his professional career with the Washington Redskins and New York Jets

Jonathan Bullard (2012–2015)

Jonathan Bullard was a standout defensive tackle for the Gators during the mid-2010s. Known for his explosive first step and relentless motor, Bullard was a two-time First-Team All-SEC selection and earned Second-Team All-American honors in 2015. He finished his career with 133 tackles, 18 sacks, and 40 tackles for loss. Bullard was drafted in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears and has since played for several NFL teams, including the Arizona Cardinals and Tennessee Titans.

Preston Kendrick (1996–1999)

Preston Kendrick was a key contributor to the Gators’ defense during the late 1990s. A versatile defensive lineman, Kendrick played both defensive end and defensive tackle positions. He was known for his ability to disrupt the quarterback and was a consistent presence in the backfield. Kendrick was a reliable and durable player, contributing to the Gators’ success during his tenure.

Val Brown (2004–2007)

Val Brown was a defensive end for the Gators during the mid-2000s. He was known for his speed and agility, which allowed him to be a constant threat to opposing quarterbacks. Brown’s ability to rush the passer and his defensive prowess were instrumental in the Gators’ defensive schemes during his time with the team

Legacy of No. 90

The players who have worn No. 90 for the Florida Gators have set a standard of excellence on the defensive side of the ball. From Richardson’s record-breaking sack totals to Bullard’s dominance in the trenches, each player has contributed to the rich history of Gators football. As the 2025 season kicks off, the legacy of No. 90 continues to inspire current and future Gators to strive for greatness on the field.

As the Gators prepare for their season opener, the legacy of No. 90 serves as a reminder of the program’s rich history and the high standards set by those who came before. With the upcoming season on the horizon, fans can look forward to seeing how the next generation of Gators will continue to build upon this storied tradition.