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Here is an update on the 2013 prospects Florida State has on its board and how many we expect the Seminoles to take at each position. (updated: 6/11/12)
COMMENTS:There's nothing new to update for this position. The news of Jameis Winston decision to play football at FSU solidifies they won't take a quarterback for the 2013 class. As we explained, FSU wasn't pushing that hard at all for other quarterbacks for this class so confidence was pretty high that Winston would ultimately stick with his commitment. As I said in the last hot board, UCLA commitment Eddie Printz would have been a possibility and they started to reach out to FSU, but it was only a 'just in case' situation.There were others in the mix, but no one FSU put the full court press.
RUNNING BACKS |
Alex Collins
5-11/180
Plantation (Fla.)
South Plantation H.S.
Video |
OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Boston College, Wisconsin, among others
Notes: Committed to Miami
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Ryan Green
5-10/187
St. Petersburg, Fla.
St. Pete Catholic
Video |
OFFER: Committed to FSU
OTHER OFFERS: Auburn, Florida, Miami, Notre Dame among others
Notes: Ranked No. 50 in the Rivals100, No. 7 at his position, No. 9 in the state
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OTHERS IN THE MIX: Tarean Folston
COMMENTS: With the commitment of Rivals100 RB Ryan Green, the running back board cleared up rather quickly as you will notice as we have dropped every single back that was in the top group except for Miami commitment Alex Collins. Collins would be the only one FSU would go after at this stage when you consider that Sony Michel in the 2014 class. FSU is in tough situation. Do they push for Collins, who has hinted a few times that the FSU appears to be his likely destination or pass on him and put all their cards on the table for Michael to join Joseph Yearby] in next year's class. Taking Collins would hinder the chances of Sony next season, so right now that's one of the main topics still being discussed with the FSU staff at this stage.
The Green commitment gives FSU the depth they needed at this position when you consider In addition to Green, FSU will have Mario Pender, Devonta Freeman and likely James Wilder, Jr. Green helps balance out an attack that has a little bit of everything. Pender is an electric back out in space, while Freeman between the tackles is a monster to deal with. Green has the top end speed and change of direction that will cause a lot of issues. This gives FSU an A+ for the running back position in the 2013 season.
WIDE RECEIVERS |
Alvin Bailey
5-11/170
Seffner (Fla.)
Armwood
Video |
OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Arkansas, Notre Dame, South Carolina among others
Notes: Ranked No. 132 in the Rivals250, No. 16 at his position, No. 20 in the state
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Stacy Coley
6-1/175
Oakland Park (Fla.)
Northeast
Video |
OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Florida, Mississippi, Tennessee among others
Notes: Ranked No. 47 in the Rivals100, No. 6 at his position, No. 7 in the state
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Rashard Fant
5-10/165
Fairburn (Ga.)
Our Lady of Mercy
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OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Georgia St, Middle Tenn. St., among others
Notes: Dameyune Craig is his lead recruiter
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Rickey Jefferson
6-0/180
Destrehan (La.)
Destrehan
Video |
OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Alabama, LSU
Notes: Ranked No. 123 in the Rivals250, No. 5 at his position, No. 5 in the state
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Isaiah Jones
6-4/210
Milton (Fla.)
Milton
Video |
OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Arkansas, Auburn, Clemson, Georgia, others
Notes: Ranked No. 150 in the Rivals250, No. 20 at his position, No. 22 in the state
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Tony Stevens
6-3/175
Orlando (Fla.)
Evans
Video |
OFFER: Committed to Florida State
OTHER OFFERS: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, among others
Notes: Ranked No. 187 in the Rivals250, No. 25 at his position, No. 28 in the state
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OTHERS IN THE MIX:
COMMENTS: The only major change with this position is that we are moving new FSU commitment Jesus Wilson to the 'athlete' section of the board because it's still up in the air where he could end up - wide receiver or cornerback. As I mentioned in the spring recruiting tour, FSU likes him at the cornerback position as well as slot receiver, but lately more so at corner based on what they saw when they got a chance to check him out. There's nothing really set in stone just yet, but cornerback is looking more likely for him at this stage.
As far as the rest of the board goes, it's pretty much status quo about which prospects remain in the top group. Stacey Coley and Alvin Bailey remain at the top of the charts. Bailey remains the No. 1 prospect for the slot position and Coley the same for the wide out position. However, Coley could easily play both positions. There hasn't been a lot of news on Bailey when it comes to Florida State. He did take a visit to Notre Dame, which I'm told went very well. He was impressed with the academics and how he could be used in the Irish offense.
We continue to hear that the FSU side feels cautiously confident with their chances and Bailey is expected to check out the Seminoles this July. Helping their cause is the fact that Ryan Green is also good friends with Bailey. The main teams we continue to hear connected to Bailey have always been Oklahoma State, Clemson, South Carolina, Notre Dame, South Florida and FSU. Lately, it's been FSU, Clemson and Notre Dame. At this point it's hard to go against the Seminoles despite their history with Armwood because of the relationship between Bailey and Dawsey, and FSU's need at slot.
In addition to Bailey at the slot position, FSU is pretty interested in Rashard Fant of Fairburn, Ga. During FSU's June camp, the coaches raved about him during the camp. Fant was one of the few receivers that consistently got separation against the defensive backs. Bailey is still the top choice, but the 'Noles like Fant's change of direction and top end speed. As mentioned when he was offered earlier this year, Fant's dream school is Florida State, so obviously if he's given the green light for a commitment, we expect the speedy star to not wait that long. He recently picked up a Utah offer and schools like Clemson and Miami are very close to pulling the trigger.
Now with Coley, we had to do a little more digging to see where things currently stand. But after doing some checking, we hear FSU holds the slight edge right now. He is also expected to visit FSU in July or August. South Florida and FSU were the teams recruiting him the hardest when Chris Nee spoke with Coley a couple of weeks ago. However, I would not rule out either Clemson or Florida at this stage. Clemson dropped by twice to see Coley this spring. The Gators have slipped some before making contact late in the spring. This will likely be a National signing day announcement.
While there are targets high on the board, there are also other options that FSU has on the radar as possibilities at the wide out position. One of those would be Isaiah Jones, who was at the Rivals Challenge this past weekend. He started off well in the position drills, but seemed a little overwhelmed during the one-on-one and 7-on-7 action on Saturday and Sunday. However, keep in mind this wasn't the best stage for Jones and it was also his first camp experience. FSU does stay in contact at least once a week. But we don't get the impression they have put the full court press on Jones, as say Auburn does. Jones is expected to visit FSU again in July. He grew up a big fan of the 'Noles. So, how hard they push on that visit should give a solid indication of how FSU feels about Coley and Bailey going forward. FSU still wants to take two slot receivers and two wide outs. That means only one wide out spot would be left with Tony Stevens already in the fold.
Now another prospect for FSU fans to keep an eye on is Rickey Jefferson, who is the brother of Tony Jefferson, the quarterback at LSU. Now ordinarily this would be where we tell you LSU can't be beat. However, I'm told the younger Jefferson is not as high on the Tigers and he made that clear when a couple of his teammates from the Southwest squad said he talked more about FSU, Alabama, Tennessee and others. He didn't mention the Tigers that often. Jefferson plans to visit FSU for the July camp. Earlier this year when he received a FSU offer, Jefferson said that it was one of his top offers and he likes the type of system FSU runs.
That's about it with where the board is at right now at receiver although you do have prospects like Marquez North that has FSU barely hanging on his list of teams. The 'Noles visited him in the spring, but he's a long shot at this stage. The only chance would be if the 'Noles can convince him to take a visit. I know many have asked me about Jordan Cunningham, but I just don't see that one happening considering his love for Miami.
TIGHT ENDS |
Christian Morgan
6-4/244
Plano (Tex.)
Prestonwood Christian
Video |
OFFER: Committed to FSU
OTHER OFFERS: Arkansas, Iowa State, Miami, among others
Notes: Ranked No. 14 at his position, No. 54 in the state
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OTHERS IN THE MIX: None
COMMENTS: This position got cleared up very quickly with the commitment of Christian Morgan on Tuesday. It gives the the 'Noles more balance with their offense to really open up the passing attack and even the running game with the two tight end sets they can run. Morgan has been the top prospect for FSU at tight end since they offered. This one has been done since the coaching changes that happened at Arkansas and that really opened the door for the Seminoles.
OFFENSIVE LINE |
Ira Denson
6-3/316
Madison (Fla.)
Madison
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OFFER: Committed to Florida State
OTHER OFFERS: Kentucky, Mississippi, Nebraska, others
Notes: Ranked No. 14 at his position, No. 44 in the state
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Austin Droogsma
6-3/310
Gulf Breeze, Fla.
Gulf Breeze
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OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Georgia Tech, South Florida
Notes: Ranked No. 16 at his position, No. 60 in the state
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Austin Golson
6-6/275
Prattville, Ala.
Prattville
Video |
OFFER: Committed to Florida State
OTHER OFFERS: Alabama, Kentucky, So. Miss, Wake Forest
Notes: Ranked No. 105 in the Rivals250, No. 10 at his position, No. 5 in the state
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Denver Kirkland
6-4/334
Miami, Fla.
Booker T. Washington
Video |
OFFER: Auburn, Miami, South Florida, Mississippi, among others
OTHER OFFERS: Alabama, Kentucky, So. Miss, Wake Forest
Notes: Ranked No. 210 in the Rivals250, No. 20 at his position, No. 33 in the state
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Richy Klepal
6-5/285
Tampa (Fla.)
Plant
Video |
OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Michigan State, Miss. St, Miss., USF, among others
Notes: Ranked No. 27 at his position, No. 42 in the state
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Laremy Tunsil
6-6/275
Lake City (Fla.)
Columbia H.S.
Video |
OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, LSU among others
Notes: Ranked No. 7 in the Rivals100, No. 1 at his position, No. 1 in the state
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OTHERS IN THE MIX: Ander Bodkin, Delando Crooks, Tyrone Crowder, Lucas Crowley,Ryan Hoefeld, John Lopez,Kyle Meadows, Shamar Johnson, Kyle Schafenacker
COMMENTS:Everyone's favorite position is heating up with Florida State trying to land the necessary 5-7 prospects for the 2013 recruiting class. I would say that six would probably be a more logical number than seven for this class. The food news for Florida State is that they have already two commitments for this one class, one interior with offensive guard Ira Denson, who has been on the recruiting trail working on a number of prospects that include Laremy Tunsil and Caleb Brantely. Then you also have offensive tackle Austin Golson. So that leaves four spots open.
The top target is Laremy Tunsil, who recently took visits to Georgia, Florida and Alabama. Tunsil named those three teams as his top three for the time being. Earlier this spring, Tunsil did basically the same thing and put FSU high on his list after visiting Florida State's junior day.
Despite not having FSU in that top three, I've heard they are still very high on the radar and the only reason they weren't mentioned is because those teams were the recent trips. Tunsil still speaks with the FSU staff at least twice a week and that nothing will be decided until late in the year. Tunsil is expected to either camp at FSU in July or visit in August. Those close to him have told me that it's more like Georgia slightly over FSU, Florida, and then Alabama at this stage, but again it's pretty early still in the process for him.
Now as far as the rest of the class, FSU is still in good position from what I have been told with Tampa Plant's Richy Klepal. He plans to visit FSU in July, but likely not camp.
I've heard the race has tightened up some with Austin Droogsma and Clemson. Droogsma has spoken with the FSU staff and the confidence still remains high that FSU would be the choice. He is expected to visit FSU in July and is also expected to make a decision in August.
Also FSU is firmly in the mix with Denver Kirkland. He named FSU in his top three and he is also expected to visit FSU for their July, along with FSU commitment Michael Johnson, FSU target LB Matthew Thomas and a few junior prospects. Most have Kirkland pegged for Miami, but after making it clear that the Canes were the team to beat, he's backed off that stance. Kirkland is pretty close friends with Michael Johnson I'm told. At this stage I would still say Miami or possibly South Florida over FSU, but getting him on campus could shake things up because he does have high interest in FSU and even Coach Trickett when I spoke with Kirkland on the spring recruiting tour.
I also would not close the door completely on Derwin Gray, who is committed to Maryland. It's close to home and that was an important factor, but he will also take some visits and FSU is a high probability to land one. While it's still a tough pull with the solid recruiters at Maryland, I'm told the commitment isn't rock solid.
Seminoles continue to evaluate Kyle Schafenacker from St. Thomas Aquinas. I would rule out Sandley Jean-Felix, as I didn't get the impression he made a strong impression at the FSU camp in June and he has grade problems so he can be crossed off. I can see FSU still staying strongly involved with Kyle Meadows for the tackle position when you consider that Tunsil isn't a sure thing. Even if FSU were to land Droogsma and Klepal as expected, they still need two more lineman and at least another tackle, if not two.
FSU is also a pretty strong option for Ryan Hoefeld, who picked up an FSU offer after the camp. FSU likes him as a center prospect and also was impressed with him at the guard position as well. I really get the impression from those close to Hoefeld that FSU is the team to watch and the offer only solidified that interest. He blew the staff away with his aggressiveness, quickness and his ability to consistently be on top of the blocks and be able to take the defender where he wants to go. He plans to return to FSU this summer for a closer look at the campus with his family again. He will visit again sometime in August.
The rest of the lineman currently on the board either need to continue to be evaluated or at this time FSU has some work to do. Such is the case for John Lopez, who FSU went to see and they feel they are in the mix despite the comments of Lopez saying he is focused on the teams out in the Pac-12. Obviously, it comes down to getting him on campus, so until that time he should be looked upon as in the 'reach' category. The same can be said for Tyrone Crowder and Delando Crooks. At this point FSU still has some work to reach that six number. Dekota Deyent from Tallahassee Lincoln and Ander Bodkin from Marianna, Fla. are two others the FSU staff got a chance to evaluate this spring and might get a look.
I'm also told by state of Florida recruiting analyst Chris Nee that Louisville commitment Shamar Johnson, who FSU liked last year is expected to attend the FSU July camp. He could also be an option to keep our eyes on from the camp. In addition, Nease Lucas Crowley also is getting a look, from FSU but nothing more than that at this stage.
DEFENSIVE TACKLE |
Maquedius Bain
6-3/308
Fort Lauderdale (Fla.)
University School
Video |
OFFER: Committed to Florida State
OTHER OFFERS: Marshall, Miami, South Florida
Notes: Ranked No. 33 at his position, No. 54 in the state
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Caleb Brantley
6-3/302
Crescent City (Fla.)
Crescent City
Video |
OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Committed to Florida
Notes: Ranked No. 109 in the Rivals250, No. 8 at his position, No. 17 in the state
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Scott Pagano
6-3/280
Honolulu (Hi.)
Moanalua
Video |
OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Arkansas, Clemson, Florida, Georgia, LSU, others
Notes: Ranked No. 104 in the Rivals250, No. 6 at his position, No. 1 in the state
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Deadrin Senat
6-1/311
Immokalee (Fla.)
Immokalee
Video |
OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Georgia Tech, Miami, North Carolina
Notes: Ranked No. 20 at his position, No. 48 in the state
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OTHERS IN THE MIX: Keith Bryant
COMMENTS: Arguably one of the least needed positions for Florida State would be the defensive tackle position. There has not been a lot of movement for this position except for the addition of Alabama commitment, Pensacola standout Darius Page, who camped at Florida State and earned an offer. After the event, he downplayed the visit, but we do hear he has legit interest in FSU. He even called the offer "very exciting". Page does have some work to do in the classroom, but he's an option.
Other than Page, FSU would like to add one or two defensive tackles for this class. They have one commitment from Marquedius Bain, who hasn't exactly left FSU fans with warm and fuzzy thoughts since he took several visits to Miami since his decision. But, he consistently stays in contact with FSU's staff, in particular Odell Haggins. Also, his cousin is Bobby Hart, who he is also very close with. A true gauge for that commitment will happen for the July camp or in August when Bain plans to visit FSU again. No visit would certainly be a telling sign that there is a problem.
We hear that former 'Nole commitment Deadrin Senat's will re-commit to FSU at the end of the day. Immokalee head coach Jarred Ackley reiterated that message again this week. He feels Senat loves everything about FSU and expects him to commit back there. Senat simply wants to check out other schools.
One of the most interesting prospects is Keith Bryant, a Miami commitment. The fact that Bryant has already visited FSU three times this year alone is a telling sign. Earlier this year, Bryant reiterated that he's firm to Miami. But the vibe we received lately is he likes working with Coach Haggins and that the door isn't completely shut for FSU. In fact, Bryant is expected to be back in Tallahassee for at least one game later this season, if not more.
Last prospect that is worth mentioning is Florida Gator commitment Caleb Brantley. Last Friday he told us at the Rivals Challenge that he didn't think he would be taking visits. Then a day later, said he planned to attend Dawg Night at Georgia and that he will likely visit FSU this summer. He seemed to change directions the more time he spent with different prospects committed to their respective school. I'd still say he is firm, but it isn't solid.
There is also Scott Pagano from Hawaii , although they trail LSU and Florida. He showed up to the Rivals Challenge last weekend with a Florida hat. But, I still believe LSU is the team to watch here at this stage. I believe his unofficial visits are planned for July. It will give a true gauge to where his recruitment is at. Pagano hasn't visited anywhere, so he's mainly going on feelings and what he has heard about the different conferences and teams. So we'll see how he feels once the visits start.
DEFENSIVE END |
Davin Bellamy
6-5/240
Chamblee (Ga.)
Chamblee
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OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Arkansas, Auburn, Clemson, Georgia, others
Notes: Ranked No. 30 at his position, No. 42 in the state
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De'Asian Richardson
6-3/285
Orange Park (Fla.)
Orange Park
Video |
OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Alabama, Louisville, South Carolina, South Florida among others
Notes: Ranked No. 18 at his position, No. 45 in the state
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Jordan Sherit
6-3/245
Tampa(Fla.)
Hillsborough
Video |
OFFER: No
OTHER OFFERS: Auburn, Cal, Florida, Miami, among others
Notes: Ranked No. 94 in the Rivals100, No. 9 at his position. No. 15 in the state
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Za'Darius Smith
6-5/253
Scooba (Miss.)
Chamblee
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OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Miss. St,
Notes: JUCO prospect
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Gerald Sterling
6-5/240
Aliceville (Ala.)
University
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OFFER: No
OTHER OFFERS: Alabama A&M, Arkasas St., Middle Tenn. St.
Notes: Camped at FSU
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Eddie Vanderdoes
6-4/285
Placer (Calif.)
Placer
Video |
OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, LSU, among others
Notes: Ranked No. 26 in the Rivals100, No. 5 at his position. No. 2 in the state
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OTHERS IN THE MIX: Tashawn Bower, Mike Love, Eric Mayes, D'Angelo Reynolds, Tim Williams
COMMENTS: This is the position FSU would like to hit really hard, hoping to bring in at least three. One prospect that has warmed up to Florida State lately is Jordan Sherit, who is expected to visit FSU for one of the summer camps. He currently favors Florida at this stage, but he told me that one of the main factors for him is getting on the field early. The Gators are pretty stacked at defensive end. Sherit says that has caught his attention about FSU - he would have the opportunity to get on the field. He also raved about what he saw from the FSU ends last year. Sherit said that impressed him a lot about the FSU ends.
So with FSU hoping to land either three or four prospects, who are the guys that are the biggest possibilities? Right now, Tashawn Bower and DeAsian Richardson would be the top ones. At this stage we feel FSU is either the leader or in the top two for both. In addition, you have to throw Joey Ivie in the mix as he is expected to visit FSU either this week or in July if he can't make the first session. The 'Noles like Ivie at both defensive end or tackle. Florida is expected to be the main competition, but likes him only as a tackle. This also may fall in a position to what position Ivie prefers at the next level. He hinted that defensive end is much easier and gives him a lot more freedom as a pass rusher and gave the impression he likes that better than tackle.
Also heavily in the mix is Elijah Daniel, who hinted to several people close to him that he would like to play football in the South, especially in Florida. The Gators were the leaders when we last checked, but FSU has spent a lot of time working on Daniel - visiting him twice this spring.
Then you also have DE Eddie Vandergoes, who has high interest in LSU. Vandergoes was very high on the FSU offer and don't be surprised if he takes a visit to FSU in July.
Another prospect dead in LSU territory is Tim Williams, who will visit FSU probably on Tuesday I'm told or soon. He might not attend or watch the camp though. Williams is a prospect that Dameyune Craig has targeted from the very start and Williams says the bond with Craig is why he is seriously considering FSU and why he wanted to take a visit. Despite being in a very pro LSU area, Craig is trying to pull another big rabbit out of his hat. Finally, if you are looking for another sleeper, look at for Mike Love from Clearwater Countryside as he's a solid pass rusher, but just needs to get stronger.
LINEBACKER |
Ro'Derrick Hoskins
6-3/215
Orlando (Fla.)
Orlando
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OFFER: Committed to Florida State
OTHER OFFERS:
Notes: Ranked No. 32 at his position, No. 79 in the state
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Michael Deeb
6-2/237
Plantation(Fla.)
American Heritage
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OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Boise St., Cincinnati, Illinois, others
Notes: Ranked No. 26 at his position, No. 73 in the state
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E.J. Levenberry Jr.
6-3/226
Woodbridge (Va.)
C.D. Hylton
Video |
OFFER: Committed to Florida State
OTHER OFFERS: Alabama, Florida, Louisville among others
Notes: Ranked No. 21 in the Rivals100, No. 3 at his position, No. 2 in the state
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Mike Mitchell
6-4/215
Plano (Texas)
Prestwood Christian
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OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Boise St., Cincinnati, Illinois, others
Notes: Ranked No. 26 at his position, No. 73 in the state
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Freddie Stevenson
6-1/220
Bartow (Fla.)
Bartow
Video |
OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Iowa State, Kentucky, South Florida. Texas A&M, among others
Notes: Ranked No. 20 at his position, No 50 in the state
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Matthew Thomas
6-4/200
Miami (Fla.)
Booker T. Washington
Video |
OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Alabama, Louisville, Miami, UCF among others
Notes: Ranked No. 11 in the Rivals100, No. 2 at his position, No. 3 in the state
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Stacy Thomas
6-1/230
Miami (Fla.)
Gulliver Prep
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OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Florida, Georgia Tech, LSU, among others
Notes: Ranked No. 11 at his position, No. 47 in the state
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OTHERS IN THE MIX: Keith Kelsey, Skai Moore
COMMENTS: The linebacker core is shaping up nicely when you consider FSU now holds commitments from Tyrell Lyons, Ro'Derrick Hoskins and E.J. Levenberry. The 'Noles would like to close that class with two more additions. At the top of that wish list is five-star prospect Matthew Thomas, the teammate of FSU commitment safety Michael Johnson. We hear that Alabama and FSU appear to be the two teams fighting for that top spot as Miami has dropped to fifth. Naturally, you never rule out the Hurricanes when it comes to prospects from the area, but Thomas' interest in Florida State is hardly just for show. FSU was a team he liked as a young player. His family prefers Miami we are told. They also want him to stay in-state, so that might play into his decision. Most Booker T. Washington prospects end up playing for the Hurricanes. But the interest in the 'Noles is very legit. Thomas will visit during FSU's July camp.
Rivals100 Mike Mitchell is a new name that has emerged. Mitchell is the teammate of FSU commitment Christian Morgan and I'm told the two are pretty close. Mitchell also revealed in a Q&A that Ohio State and FSU were his top two schools and this was well before Morgan's commitment. After doing some digging around, I also found out Mitchell did some research on the Seminoles linebacker core and was very impressed the freedom and hard hitting style of the defense. We hear Mitchell plans a mid to late July visit to FSU.
FSU might have to start turning away some linebackers when you consider that they are the team to beat for both Michael Deeb and Freddie Stevenson. Out of those two, Stevenson is considered higher on the board. But who fits the situation better as a Mike linebacker or an outside linebacker is the question. With Mitchell now in the fold, this could make a situation where FSU can only take one linebacker if they land Thomas and Mitchell. Then you also have Stacy Thomas, a defensive end/linebacker prospect. His size might fit more into the linebacker role. He currently has FSU in his top two, but you have to wonder if he's now slipping down the board with the recent movement. My guess would be yes he is, but that might depend on which players pull the trigger early.
Finally there are a few sleepers still on the board in Skai Moore, who is expected to camp at Florida State in July and Keith Kelsey, who had a strong camp at FSU in June and may return for a visit to FSU in July or August.
SAFETY |
Mackenro Alexander
6-0/190
Immokalee(Fla.)
Immokalee
Video |
OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Kentucky, Oklahoma,Tennessee, USF, others
Notes: Ranked No. 40 in the state
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Jamal Carter
6-1/175
Miami (Fla.)
Southridge
Video |
OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Florida, Louisville, Miami, USF
Notes: Ranked No. 211 in the Rivals250, No. 18 at his position, No. 34 in the state
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Marcell Harris
6-1/213
Groveland (Fla.)
South Lake
Video |
OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Florida, Tempmle, Tennessee
Notes: Father played at Florida. Ranked. No. 54 in the Rivals100, No. 6 at his position, No. 10 in the state
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Tyrell Lyons
6-2/220
Jacksonville (Fla.)
First Coast
Video |
OFFER: Committed to Florida State
OTHER OFFERS: Mississippi, Troy, UCF
Notes: Ranked no. 27 at his position, No. 64 in the state
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Michael Johnson
5-9/153
Miami (Fla.)
Booker T. Washington
Video |
OFFER: Committed to Florida State
OTHER OFFERS: West Virginia
Notes: Ranked No. 24 at his position, No. 65 in the state
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Marquez White
6-1/180
Dothan (Ala.)
Northview
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OFFER: Committed to Florida State
OTHER OFFERS: Alabama, Indiana, Mississippi, others
Notes: Ranked No. 34 at his position, No. 17 in the state
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OTHERS IN THE MIX: None
COMMENTS: So far this is a position that FSU has filled up well since they have two free safeties in Marquez White. He can play the nickel corner if called upon and free safety position where he is currently listed in the database. White is a long rangy prospect who can cover a ton of ground in a short amount of time because of that wing span and his speed alone in the FSU secondary is going to be a tremendous advantage.
Michael Johnson on other hand is a nickel corner, free safety type who can roam the center field and close on the ball, then finish the play. Despite his size, Johnson isn't afraid to stick his head in there in being physical, but at the same time he has some of the best hands you will see around the state in how many passes he can pull in. Two weeks ago, Johnson showed that at the 7-on-7 tournament where he had five interceptions.
Four-star Marcell Harris is at the top of Florida State's wish list. He's the complete package for a safety when you consider he's got the body of a linebacker, hits like one, but moves more like a free safety. He's very impressed with FSU defensive coordinator Mark Stoops, but likes the depth chart at Florida. He also likes the way the Texas defense plays with their scheme. Harris will be back at FSU in July and is expected to take another visit to Texas later this year. There is no timeline for a decision and there is absolutely no truth to the rumor that he will make a decision after Florida's Friday Night Lights event. Harris is unsure when he's going to decide. It would not be surprising if he waited after his season, but we'll see if he changes his mind after the 'The Opening' event and FSU visit.
FSU will also have their best chance to convince Miami Southridge's Jamal Carter that Tallahassee is the best place for him when he visits with Lamar Robbins. Carter currently favors Miami, but has also admitted that he hasn't really seen a lot of places yet. They are coached by former FSU great Lamont Green, who will also be in Tallahassee for the July summer camp. Carter us during the spring recruiting tour he has FSU in his top five, but he doesn't know a lot about them yet. So during his FSU visit, he wants to meet a lot of the players and get a feel for the defense. His teammate Robbins (a cousin of Rodney Smith) is a prospect that could earn an offer at the July camp. He plays mostly corner for Southridge, but you also can't rule out the fact that he could end up as a free safety in college.
There is also Mackenro Alexander. He recently had FSU in his top two along with West Virginia when we last spoke with him. He is expected to visit FSU for the July camp. Simeon Thomas has been mentioned as a possibility for FSU, but I don't see that happening nor do I see the possibility of him picking up an offer with Florida State despite the fact he claimed one early in the process. Another prospect in the mix is Xavier Hines.
CORNERBACK |
Mackensie Alexander
5-11/175
Immokaleee (Fla.)
Immokalee
Video |
OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Florida, Miami, South Florida
Notes: Ranked No. 65 in the Rivals100, No. 5 at his position, No. 11 in the state
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Adrian Baker
6-1/168
Hollywood (Fla.)
Chaminade
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OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Auburn, Clemson, LSU, others
Notes: Ranked No. 35 at his position, No. 69 in the state
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Artie Burns
6-0/170
Miami (Fla.)
Northwestern
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OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Alabama, Florida, Miami, among others
Notes: Ranked No. 176 in the Rivals250, No. 13 at his position, No. 25 in the state
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Vernon Hargreaves
5-10/177
Tampa (Fla.)
Wharton
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OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Florida, Miami, South Florida
Notes: Father coached with Greg Hudson at East Carolina. Ranked No. 9 on Rivals100, No. 2 at his position, No. 2 in the state
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Rashard Robinson
6-2/162
Pompano Beach (Fla.)
Ely
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OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: LSU, Oklahoma, others
Notes: Ranked No. 24 at his position, No. 51 in the state
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Sojourn Shelton
5-9/155
Plantation (Fla.)
Plantation
Video |
OFFER: Committed to Florida State
OTHER OFFERS: Wisconsin
Notes: Ranked No. 36 at his position, No. 74 in the state
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OTHERS IN THE MIX: Lamar Robbins
COMMENTS: There isn't much news regarding additions or even subtractions from the cornerback board.
It looks like Jesus Wilson will end up at the corner position, so for now we are going to keep him in this group unless we hear that there is a possibility at slot receiver. FSU also has Sojourn Shelton still on the committed list, but I see him ending up at South Carolina as we have discussed for a few months. We hear FSU just has higher prospects on the board and he hasn't developed like they thought he would. There hasn't been a lot of communication from the two sides lately.
FSU would like to add three corners for this class. Possibilities include Mackensie Alexander, Adrian Baker, Rashard Robinson and Artie Burns for the remaining two spots (assuming Wilson moves over to corner.) Alexander, Robinson, Burns and and Baker is probably how they would fall into place at this stage. Baker loves FSU and he still feels it is 60-40 FSU over Ohio State at this stage. He is still scheduled to announce his college choice on July 1.
Robinson on the other hand is not in a hurry anymore. While we still give LSU the edge, FSU certainly made up a lot of ground at the June camp. It all comes down to how much LSU actually pushes for Robinson.
Alexander is currently setting up his visits. We hear he will be in Tallahassee either July or August, but he knows for sure he'll be there. This was also confirmed by his head coach Jerrod Ackley. Alexander has indicated no leaders, but did give the impression to teammates and even his cousin Mackenro that he would like to stay in-state in order to stay close to his family.
As we mentioned this spring, Mackenro and Mackensie would like to attend the same school, but it's not a deal breaker. I did get the impression that if FSU does firm up Deadrin Senat, it would certainly continue to increase the chances for FSU.
Nothing has changed with Artie Burns. He was in Tallahassee for the June camp and plans to be back for the July camp. If he does make it back it, would not be a surprise if he ended his recruitment. Burns loves FSU's track program and has a very good relationship with Coach Stoops. This one might drag on for a while if he doesn't make the visit. This trip could tell a lot about where his recruitment goes despite Burns saying he might wait a while.
Five star Vernon Hargreaves is still on the radar, but hasn't really talked about the Seminoles lately. He mentions Florida and South Florida more when talking about teams he likes. Vernon hasn't visited the FSU campus in a while.
Reggie Wilkerson, a Georgia commitment is expected to be in town for the July camp, but it would take a lot for FSU to convince him to switch his commitment. He's been pretty firm to Georgia for a while, despite hoping the 'Noles offered early in the spring.
ATHLETE |
Levonte Whitfield
5-10/165
Orlando (Fla.)
Jones
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OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Committed to Miami
Notes: Ranked No. 59 at his position, No. 75 in the state
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Marquion Lane
6-2/175
Deland (Fla.)
Deland
Video |
OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: Arizona, Arkansas, South Florida, others
Notes: Ranked No. 62 at his position, No. 85 in the state
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Myles Willis
5-10/180
Atlanta (Ga.)
Marist
Video |
OFFER: Yes
OTHER OFFERS: UCF commitment
Notes: Ranked No. 64 at his position, No. 60 in the state
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OTHERS IN THE MIX: Tiquan Mizzell
COMMENTS: FSU target Myles Willis might be the heaviest target in this group. The all-purpose athlete attended the June camp and worked out mostly with the running backs. Where he lines up in college is still up in the air. It could be on the defensive side of the ball at safety or at wide receiver because of his change of direction. Nothing has really changed much. He is still a Central Florida commitment, but is still taking visits and will come back to see FSU in the summer and catch a few games. He's not a solid commitment from what I can tell, but the question remains - would FSU take Willis? My feeling is they would, but at what position? Safety might be the best bet.
Marquion Lane looked like he was close to making a decision but has slowed things down. He hasn't returned to Florida State since the spring game. His teammate JoJo Kemp just committed to South Florida last weekend. So we'll see what happens. Lane has also picked up some new offers and is still intrigued by FSU.
Also in the mix is Levonte Whitfield. There hasn't a lot of action lately. We continue to hear it's FSU, Miami or Clemson. He is expected to visit FSU in July and possibly workout at slot receiver. It's still up in the air what position he would be at if he did pick FSU, but from early indications it sounds like he'd be brought in as an athlete and mainly a kick return specialist.
Finally, there is Tiquan Mizzell. He told us at the Rivals Challenge that he plans to take a look at Florida State, but until that actually happens, we will just keep him in as a mention until a visit actually happens.
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