With the 2025 college football season gradually nearing, Florida Gators on SI is taking the opportunity to highlight some of the most impactful players ever to don the iconic orange and blue of the Florida Gators. As anticipation builds for Florida’s season opener against Long Island University, which is now just 93 days away, it’s a fitting time to honor standout players from the program’s history—specifically those who wore the No. 93 jersey with distinction.
One of the most unforgettable names to sport No. 93 is linebacker Alonzo Johnson, whose tenure with the Gators lasted from 1982 to 1985. Johnson is a revered figure in Gator history, having earned induction into the University of Florida Athletic Hall of Fame. Hailing from Panama City, Florida, Johnson made his presence known on the field with remarkable consistency and skill. He was named a First-Team All-American twice and received All-SEC honors on two occasions. In 1985, Johnson broke his own record for most sacks in a season by a Gator, registering 12 sacks and anchoring a team that would go on to post a 9-1-1 record.
Johnson’s dominance as a pass rusher redefined expectations for linebackers at Florida, and he concluded his collegiate career as the school’s all-time sack leader with 27—a record that has since been surpassed by Alex Brown, though Johnson remains high on the list. His collegiate achievements led to him being selected in the second round of the 1986 NFL Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles, taken with the 48th overall pick. Though his professional career was relatively short, Johnson made an impact, starting nine of the 18 games he played. He finished with one sack and three interceptions, adding to a legacy that began with his disruptive play in Gainesville.
Another standout No. 93 is defensive end Trace Armstrong, who wore the jersey during his single season with the Gators in 1988. Despite playing just one year at Florida after transferring from Arizona State University, Armstrong left an indelible mark. He earned First-Team All-American recognition and set a then-school record with 19 tackles-for-loss in a single season. Additionally, he registered seven sacks and consistently disrupted opposing offenses, showing a keen understanding of leverage and footwork on the defensive line.
Armstrong’s efforts at Florida helped elevate his draft stock, and he was selected 12th overall by the Chicago Bears in the first round of the 1989 NFL Draft. Over a 15-year NFL career, Armstrong earned Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors, became known for his leadership, and even led the league in forced fumbles in the 2000 season. After retiring from professional football, he transitioned into a successful career as a sports agent, representing notable NFL head coaches like Mike McCarthy, James Franklin, and Les Miles, as well as prominent sports media personalities such as Chris Mortensen and Dan Le Batard.
Another important figure who wore No. 93 with pride is Tim Beauchamp, who played for Florida between 1995 and 1998. Beauchamp may not have achieved the same national recognition as Johnson or Armstrong, but he played a critical role on the Gators’ 1996 national championship team. Despite being relatively early in his collegiate career at the time, Beauchamp emerged as Florida’s most productive pass rusher during that title-winning season, leading the team with seven sacks.
Standing at 6 feet 3 inches and weighing 270 pounds, Beauchamp was a three-year starter on the defensive line and a model of consistency. Over his career at Florida, he accumulated 69 total tackles and 12.5 sacks. His contributions often flew under the radar, but his presence on the defensive front was essential to the team’s success. Following his college days, Beauchamp pursued a professional football career that took him across various leagues. He had a stint with the Cleveland Browns in the NFL before continuing in the CFL, NFL Europe, and eventually the XFL, showcasing his enduring passion for the game.
More recently, defensive lineman Steven Harris wore No. 93 from 2003 to 2006 and played a steady, dependable role for the Gators throughout his time in Gainesville. Harris was part of another Florida national championship squad, starting at defensive tackle in the Gators’ 2006 title-winning season. In that championship year, Harris contributed solidly, starting six games and notching 15 tackles, including 4.5 tackles-for-loss and 1.5 sacks.
While Harris wasn’t the flashiest player on the field, he brought a level of consistency that coaches and teammates valued. He appeared in 47 games during his collegiate career and earned 19 starts, providing important depth and experience to the defensive line rotation. After college, Harris went on to play for the Denver Broncos in the NFL. His professional career was brief, but he managed to log five tackles and recover a fumble during his time in the league.
Collectively, these players represent a strong tradition of defensive talent associated with the No. 93 jersey at Florida. From the explosive playmaking of Alonzo Johnson and Trace Armstrong to the steady contributions of Tim Beauchamp and Steven Harris, each player brought something unique to the table. Johnson’s legacy is one of dominance and accolades, setting the standard for future pass rushers at Florida. Armstrong made the most of a single season to achieve greatness, while Beauchamp’s workmanlike production helped lead a national title run. Harris, on the other hand, exemplified the value of consistency and depth on a championship-caliber team.
As the Gators prepare to begin a new chapter in the 2025 season, the program’s rich history is once again under the spotlight. The players who wore No. 93 are a testament to the talent, dedication, and perseverance required to excel at the highest levels of college football. They each contributed in meaningful ways to the legacy of Florida football—whether through record-setting performances, vital roles in championship runs, or transitions into impactful post-football careers. As fans look ahead with excitement, it’s worth reflecting on the excellence of those who paved the way in Gator Nation while wearing No. 93.
