Florida State has landed an explosive young player at a position of need out of the transfer portal.

The Seminoles have started the new year off on the right note, earning the commitment of UNC transfer linebacker Caleb LaVallee on Friday afternoon after he visited on the first few days of January.

LaVallee, who flashed during North Carolina's loss to UConn in the Fenway Bowl, was a four-star prospect in the 2023 class. LaVallee appeared in 10 games for the Tar Heels this season and made 14 tackles.

He made the first start of his career for North Carolina last week when the Tar Heels took on the UConn in the Wasabi Fenway Bowl. LaVallee led UNC with nine tackles in their 27-14 loss to the Huskies.

FSU announced LaVallee signed on Friday afternoon.

"I'm excited we are adding Caleb to our program,” FSU coach Mike Norvell said. “He's a dynamic athlete who possesses great speed and explosive power. He gained great experience in his first start in the bowl game, where he led his team in tackles, and was one of the most impactful special teams players as a freshman this past season. Caleb plays the game with great physicality, and I believe he will continue to develop into a top linebacker and be a tremendous fit for what we are looking for in the Nole Family."

LaVallee was offered by FSU coming out of Smyrna (Ga.) Whitfield Academy. He was ranked by Rivals as the 18th-best ILB prospect in the country for that recruiting cycle. Florida State is also recruiting his younger brother, Noah, who was offered by the Seminoles in April of last year.

LaVallee joins Nebraska transfer Stefon Thompson as the two incoming transfers for Florida State's linebacker room, which is now led by prior defensive ends coach John Papuchis.

He is FSU's 12th transfer addition of the offseason.

LaVallee will have three years of eligibility remaining as a rising redshirt sophomore.

Exclusive: LaVallee discusses his visit to FSU with the Osceola

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