Florida State, known for its rigorous focus on attracting and retaining talent across the southeast, has had all 11 of its verbal commitments in #Tribe24 originating from Florida or Georgia. This strategic approach has the Seminoles frequently vying with the Gators, Bulldogs, and Hurricanes for the best recruits. However, even with a keen eye for talent, Florida State cannot claim every victory in the recruiting landscape. Over the past weekend, two prospects that FSU had extended offers to, opted for the Gators during official visits to Gainesville.
Nasir Johnson and Amir Jackson’s Commitment to the Gators
Nasir Johnson, a four-star defensive tackle, and Amir Jackson, a four-star tight end, both targeted by FSU, decided to commit to the Gators. Johnson, known for his agility and athleticism, was high on FSU’s list, even being personally offered a position by Head Coach Mike Norvell. It remains to be seen if Johnson will still visit the Seminoles following his commitment elsewhere. Following Johnson’s move to the Gators, Florida State has turned to other potential recruits, including:
- Four-star Kamarion Franklin
- Four-star Artavius Jones
- Three-star Alex January
Amir Jackson, another potential recruit for FSU, also chose the Gators. Jackson had been on campus for the Spring Showcase on April 15, indicating prior interest in the Seminoles.
Emerging Tight End Prospects
Despite this setback, the tight end position at FSU is taking a positive turn. Five-star tight end Landen Thomas, originally committed to Georgia, flipped to the Seminoles in April. Thomas is actively recruiting other top prospects while preparing for an official visit alongside Kylan Fox, a four-star tight end.
A Busy Sunday for Florida State Football
The Seminoles had a packed schedule this Sunday, hosting several official visitors and their final individual summer camp. A large pool of talent was expected, including players such as Charles Lester III, Zavier Mincey, BJ Gibson, Ricky Knight III, Alex January, and Kevin Levy.
FSU Commit Makes a Name in the Elite 11 Finals
Luke Kromenhoek, Florida State quarterback commit, recently made a mark at the Elite 11 Finals, a prestigious QB-centric competition. Despite his ambition to win the MVP honor, Kromenhoek held his own against some of the best quarterbacks of the 2024 recruiting class. The Savannah, Georgia-based prospect didn’t take home the MVP honor, but his performance earned him a spot among the top 11 quarterbacks. Kromenhoek, ranked as the No. 24 dual-threat quarterback in the 2024 class, is committed to FSU since March 2022, demonstrating steadfast loyalty to the Seminoles. When he signs in December, he’ll be the first quarterback named to the Elite 11 to sign with the Seminoles since Malik Henry in the 2016 class. Further information about the Elite 11 rankings can be found here.
Final Thoughts
Florida State, currently holding 11 commitments in its 2024 class, is ranked No. 17 in the country according to 247Sports. With ongoing efforts in securing and retaining top talent, the Seminoles show a promising future in football recruiting. Balancing wins and losses on the recruitment trail, the team continues to scout for potential prospects and work towards building a robust roster.
The Strategy Moving Forward
The loss of Nasir Johnson and Amir Jackson to the Gators is undoubtedly a setback. However, this shift has prompted Florida State to reconsider their options and shift their focus towards other prospects. The recruitment board now includes prospects such as four-star Kamarion Franklin, four-star Artavius Jones, and three-star Alex January. Additionally, three-star prospect Jamorie Flagg has already committed to the class, bolstering the Seminoles’ lineup.
Turning the Tides in Tight End Recruitment
While Amir Jackson’s decision is a blow to the Seminoles’ tight end recruitment, the commitment from five-star tight end Landen Thomas is a notable win. Thomas’ commitment marks a significant milestone, providing the Seminoles with a much-needed boost in their recruiting efforts. His steadfastness in the decision and his active role in recruiting other top prospects highlights his dedication and could have a ripple effect, attracting more high-profile athletes to Florida State.
Outlook for the 2024 Class
Florida State’s strategy of focusing on home-grown talent continues to shape its 2024 class. Despite competition from top-ranking teams such as the Gators and Bulldogs, the Seminoles have secured a strong position in the recruiting race. As the Seminoles move forward, their strategic focus on cultivating and retaining southeastern talent, combined with their success in hosting recruitment events and attracting notable prospects, presents an optimistic outlook for the upcoming 2024 class. The commitments already in place, combined with potential prospects, indicate that FSU’s efforts are yielding results, solidifying their standing in the national recruiting rankings. Despite the competition and the inevitable setbacks, Florida State remains unwavering in its commitment to building a competitive team. As the recruitment season progresses, all eyes will be on the Seminoles to see how their strategy unfolds and which top prospects they will successfully bring to their roster.
