In a massive win for Mike Norvell and the Florida State Seminoles, the nation’s top-ranked linebacker has committed to FSU, turning down college football powerhouses such as Ohio State, Michigan, and Texas. Standing at a towering 6-foot-7 and weighing in at 280 pounds, this five-star phenom has already drawn comparisons to NFL legends thanks to his rare combination of size, speed, and field IQ.
The linebacker, widely regarded as a generational defensive talent, announced his commitment via a nationally televised segment, donning the garnet and gold and sending shockwaves through the college football recruiting world. The commitment not only bolsters FSU’s already strong 2025 recruiting class but also signals a return to elite recruiting form for the Seminoles, who have been aggressively rebuilding under Norvell.
“This is where I feel I can become the best version of myself — as a player, a student, and a leader,” the linebacker said. “The energy, the culture, and the brotherhood at Florida State made this feel like home. Coach Norvell and Coach Shannon made it clear they believe in me, and I believe in what they’re building.”
Ranked No. 1 nationally among linebackers and top five overall regardless of position, the recruit has been a terror for opposing offenses throughout his high school career. Known for his sideline-to-sideline range, explosive first step, and bone-crushing tackles, he posted eye-popping stats as a junior: 112 tackles, 21 tackles for loss, 12 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles. He also plays tight end and special teams, showcasing freakish athleticism that separates him from his peers.
Recruiting analysts have praised his decision-making, versatility, and leadership on and off the field. “He’s the kind of player who can transform a defense overnight,” said one national recruiting expert. “At 6-foot-7, 280, with that kind of mobility and football IQ, he’s a unicorn. You don’t see many athletes like this come around, and Florida State just landed a program-changing talent.”
His commitment is a tough pill to swallow for schools like Ohio State and Michigan, both of which had hosted him on official visits and were widely considered finalists. Texas, too, made a strong push, offering immediate playing time and NIL opportunities. But in the end, it was FSU’s tradition, defensive scheme, and player development record that sealed the deal.
FSU’s 2025 recruiting class now ranks among the top in the country, with this commitment putting them in contention for the No. 1 overall class. The Seminoles have been stacking elite defensive recruits in recent months, and this latest pledge gives them a centerpiece to build their future defense around.
With FSU aiming for a return to national championship contention, this commitment marks a defining moment in the program’s resurgence. Fans and analysts alike are already penciling the young linebacker in as a potential day-one starter and future NFL first-rounder.
The road to Tallahassee just got a little more dangerous and a lot more exciting. Florida State didn’t just win a recruiting battle they secured a game-wrecker, a future legend, and a cornerstone of what could be college football’s next dominant defense.
