Florida State’s Strategic Expansion: Pursuing Top West Coast Talent
Florida State University (FSU) has recently intensified its recruitment efforts on the West Coast, securing commitments from several high-profile prospects. This strategic expansion reflects the Seminoles’ commitment to building a nationally competitive football program under head coach Mike Norvell.(si.com)
1. James “Tank” Carrington: A Defensive Powerhouse
One of the standout additions to FSU’s 2026 recruiting class is defensive lineman James “Tank” Carrington. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 257 pounds, Carrington hails from Irvine, California. Despite receiving over 30 scholarship offers, he chose FSU after an official visit to Tallahassee. Ranked as a four-star prospect by 247Sports, Carrington is known for his impressive 80-inch wingspan and disruptive presence on the defensive line. His commitment marks the second defensive lineman pledge for the Tribe26 class, bolstering FSU’s defensive front.(tomahawknation.com)
2. Blake Nichelson: Versatile Linebacker with Dual Threat Capability
Blake Nichelson, a versatile linebacker from Manteca, California, has also committed to FSU. Standing 6’3″ and weighing 200 pounds, Nichelson is ranked as the No. 132 overall prospect nationally. He is recognized for his dual-threat capabilities, excelling both as a running back and linebacker. During his senior season, he recorded 10 tackles, 1 tackle for loss, 1 forced fumble, and 3.5 sacks on defense, while adding 872 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns on offense. Nichelson’s commitment adds depth and versatility to FSU’s linebacker corps.(si.com)
3. Duce Robinson: A Transfer with West Coast Roots
Duce Robinson, a wide receiver and baseball outfielder, transferred to FSU from USC. Originally from Dallas, Texas, Robinson moved to Phoenix, Arizona, where he attended Pinnacle High School. At USC, he recorded 39 receptions for 747 yards and 7 touchdowns over two seasons. Robinson’s decision to join FSU adds experience and playmaking ability to the Seminoles’ receiving corps.(en.wikipedia.org, thechiefbrief.com)
4. Myron Charles: Elite Defensive Line Prospect
Defensive lineman Myron Charles from Port Charlotte, Florida, is another key target for FSU’s 2025 recruiting class. Standing 6’4″ and weighing 300 pounds, Charles is ranked as the No. 58 overall prospect in the 2025 On300 rankings. He is considered one of the top defensive linemen in the nation and has expressed strong interest in FSU due to its development program and coaching staff. The Seminoles are competing with programs like Miami, Florida, and USC for his commitment.(on3.com)
5. Jonaz Walton: High-Profile Running Back Target
Running back Jonaz Walton from Carrollton, Georgia, has included FSU in his top ten schools. Standing 5’10” and weighing 210 pounds, Walton rushed for 1,387 yards and 14 touchdowns during his junior season. He is ranked as the No. 4 running back in the 2026 class and has been a long-time target for the Seminoles. Securing his commitment would bolster FSU’s backfield for the future.(si.com)
6. Samuel Roseborough: Offensive Line Prospect with West Coast Ties
Offensive lineman Samuel Roseborough from Clearwater, Florida, has included FSU in his top ten schools. Standing 6’5″ and weighing 295 pounds, Roseborough is ranked as the No. 110 overall prospect in the 2026 class. He attended a junior day at FSU earlier this year, whre he met with offensive line coach Herb Hand. Roseborough’s commitment would strengthen FSU’s offensive line for the future.(si.com, thechiefbrief.com)
7. LaJesse Harrold: Edge Rusher with Elite Potential
Edge rusher LaJesse Harrold from Tampa, Florida, has decommitted from LSU and is considering FSU as a potential destination. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 220 pounds, Harrold recorded 32 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, 11 sacks, and 4 fumble recoveries during his senior season. He is regarded as a traits-heavy edge defender with elite athleticism and energy. Harrold’s commitment would add a high-upside pass rusher to FSU’s defensive line.(thechiefbrief.com)
Conclusion
Florida State’s expanded recruitment efforts on the West Coast have yielded significant commitments from top-tier prospects like James “Tank” Carrington and Blake Nichelson. The Seminoles’ coaching staff, led by head coach Mike Norvell, has made a concerted effort to build relationships with recruits from across the country, emphasizing player development and a strong team culture. As FSU continues to strengthen its recruiting class, the additions of these West Coast talents are expected to have a positive impact on the program’s future success.(tomahawknation.com, si.com)
