Florida State’s 2026 recruiting class is off to a strong start, with two commitments already secured and the program actively competing for top talent nationwide. However, not every recruiting battle goes in their favor.
On Friday, four-star defensive end Jamarion Matthews announced his commitment to Alabama, choosing the Crimson Tide over Florida State, LSU, and Clemson. Alabama hosted Matthews for a junior day visit earlier this month, which was his final stop before making his decision. Florida State had extended an offer to him in January while he was in Tallahassee for their own junior day event. Since Matthews’ commitment is relatively early in the recruiting process, there is a possibility he will take official visits to other schools later this year.
If he does explore other options, Florida State may try to re-enter the competition. The Seminoles’ new defensive line coach, Terrance Knighton, has already proven himself as a strong recruiter, previously attracting top talent at Nebraska. Florida State hopes he can continue that success in Tallahassee.
Matthews had an impressive junior season, recording 57 tackles, 29 tackles for loss, 17 sacks, a forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries. Standing at 6-foot-2 and 240 pounds, he is ranked No. 200 overall, the No. 17 EDGE rusher, and the No. 26 prospect in Georgia for the 2026 class, according to 247Sports.
Florida State currently holds seven verbal commitments for 2026, placing them at No. 11 nationally. The Seminoles are still pursuing several defensive ends, including four-stars Trenton Henderson, Tyler Atkinson, Cam Brooks, and Zavion Griffin-Haynes, as well as three-star Carter Luckie.
Leave a Reply