Florida Players Network

10/18/2025

Happy Homecoming, Gators!

11/02/2024

Gators, let’s get this “Win!”

10/05/2024

Gators… let’s get that Win tonight against UCF!

09/14/2024

Wake Up Gators!!!! It’s Game Day and We Got This! Let’s get that “W”!!!

09/11/2024

Charlie Edwards "Chuck" Marks III, born on March 27, 1980, in Albany, Georgia, was a standout athlete from a young age. A redshirt freshman at the University of Florida, Chuck made his mark as a promising running back, co-receiving the prestigious Gatorade's Most Improved Running Back Award. His talents were well-recognized, with national accolades placing him among the top 25 running backs in the country according to the National Bluechips Recruiting Service. He was also honored with selection to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution's First Team All-State and the Georgia Super Seniors Team.
Though a knee injury sidelined him for the 1998 season, Chuck's determination remained steadfast, and his high school career at Monroe High School in Albany, Georgia, was nothing short of remarkable. He rushed for over 1,600 yards and 27 touchdowns, earning him a spot on the Georgia Prep Star All-Southeast Region Team.
Beyond his athletic prowess, Chuck was known for his infectious spirit and dedication to his family, friends, and community. His parents, Charlie and Arvilla Marks, raised him to be not only an outstanding athlete but also a devoted son and friend.
Chuck’s Home Going will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at the Monroe High School Gymnasium in Albany, Georgia, where he first made a name for himself.

09/07/2024

Are you ready for some football? We Are… Ready to watch the Gators chomp on those Samford Bulldogs!

08/31/2024

We’re back at it!!!!! Excited about this football season. Let’s go Gators… Beat Miami!

06/17/2024

03/04/2024

May Steve Rest in Peace, Condolences to the Kiefer Family.

My Brother Steve had a massive stroke last Sunday and Bridget and I spent the week in the ICU in Crestview with him and his wife, Lynn.
When we came home Friday night, we joined Lynn in making the decision to take him off life support yesterday. He died early this morning. If you knew Steve, he was simply a big guy which was one of the things that made him a great offensive lineman for the Florida Gators. But, to me, he was just big in so many ways. He was my brother and we cared about each other. Steve took a lot of different paths in life, but he was always there for me. I am so glad that, in recent years, Riley and I were able to spend some time with him shooting targets on his property in the panhandle. He was big-hearted and it was clear that he would give his last penny if it meant helping another human being. I will forever be grateful that God made him my brother.

May Steve Rest in Peace, Condolences to the Kiefer Family.

03/01/2024

Jeffrey Alan Zimmerman, born on January 10, 1965, left an indelible mark on the world of Florida Gator football. A native of Enid, Oklahoma, Zimmerman's journey in football began at Maynard Evans High School in Orlando, Florida, where he earned recognition as a high school All-American in 1982, showcasing the potential that would define his future career.

Zimmerman continued his football odyssey at the University of Florida in Gainesville, playing for the Florida Gators from 1983 to 1986. As a Gator, he quickly rose through the ranks, transitioning from a backup at guard to a key starter at right guard and eventually to right tackle during his senior season. Known by the moniker "One Man Gang," Zimmerman became an integral part of the formidable offensive line famously dubbed the "Great Wall of Florida."

Career Highlights and Awards:
Third-team All-American (1985)
First-team All-SEC (1985)
Second-team All-SEC (1984, 1986)


His excellence in pass protection and contributions to the success of the Gators' offense, alongside teammates like Phil Bromley, Lomas Brown, Billy Hinson, and Crawford Ker, helped secure impressive records for the team during the mid-1980s. Zimmerman's impact on the field and his role in creating a dominant offensive line legacy are etched into the storied history of Florida Gators football.

The Dallas Cowboys recognized Zimmerman's talent and selected him in the third round of the 1987 NFL Draft. Despite facing challenges such as weight issues, Zimmerman made his mark in the NFL, showcasing his skills as an offensive lineman. Notably, he played a crucial role in a change in the Cowboys' offensive line philosophy, emphasizing size and strength.

Zimmerman's professional journey saw him overcome injuries, including a dislocated shoulder and a sprained knee. In 1989, he played a full season, contributing as a key backup at guard and tackle. His versatility and resilience were evident as he also took on the role of the third tight end in specific game situations.

Unfortunately, Zimmerman's career faced a premature end due to unexpected challenges controlling his weight. In 1991, without prior notice, he chose not to attend the Cowboys' conditioning program or training camp, ultimately leading to his placement on the reserve/did not report list. Subsequently, he announced his retirement from professional football, reflecting on a career that, despite its brevity, left an enduring impact on the sport.

Jeff Zimmerman's legacy extends beyond statistics and accolades; it lives on in the memories of fans who witnessed his prowess on the field and in the annals of football history. As we bid farewell to this two-time All-American Gator great, we remember a player whose contributions transcended the game, leaving an everlasting imprint on the sport he loved.

The Concussion Legacy Foundation is committed to supporting athletes, Veterans and all affected by concussions and CTE through research, policy and education.

02/27/2024

Obituary for James K. (Ken) Booth
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of James Kenneth Booth,
affectionately known as Ken, on January 18, 2024, in Gainesville, Florida.
Ken is survived by his devoted wife, Wendy Thornton, and adored children, Bryan Booth and
Jessica Booth Burley. He found immense joy in his role as a grandparent to Jackson Burley,
Julia Burley, and Charlotte Booth. Ken held a special place in his heart for his beloved children-
in-law, Anne Davis Booth and Justin Burley.
He is also survived by his siblings: Teri Booth, Mary Santana, Connie Sharp, and Ed Booth,
along with cherished in-laws: Jeff Sharp, Terrie Booth, Sandra Chesnut, and his uncle, Kyle
Booth and aunt Donna Booth. Ken's unwavering strength was inspired by his mother, Mary
Elizabeth (Betty) Booth nee Brewer.
Ken came into this world on February 11, 1952, in Paintsville, Kentucky, born to James E. Booth
and Mary Elizabeth (Brewer) Booth. The family later moved to Sarasota, Florida, where Ken's
remarkable journey unfolded. He distinguished himself as a gifted athlete, an exceptional
scholar, and a treasured friend to many.
Ken's talents led him to receive a football scholarship to the University of Florida, where he
played for two years before embarking on new adventures. Beyond his athletic prowess, Ken
was a skilled woodworker and a brilliant mathematician, earning a master’s degree in
Mathematics from the University of Florida.
Ken's unwavering commitment to education led him to teach advanced mathematics in both
Alachua and Dixie County, Florida, where he made a profound impact on the lives of countless
students. Later, he ventured into the realm of information technology as an IT specialist at the
University of Florida's editorial office, where he provided invaluable guidance to graduate
students in completing their theses and dissertations. During this period, Ken also discovered
his passion for painting and music, captivating audiences with his artistry and talents.
Above all, Ken will forever be remembered for his boundless kindness, extraordinary generosity,
and an infectious sense of humor that brightened the lives of everyone around him. His legacy
of compassion and laughter will be eternally cherished by his family and friends.
During this challenging time, our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the Booth family
as they navigate this profound loss.