FSU’s Target List: 8 Prospects Who Are No Longer Top Targets
Recruiting is a dynamic and ever-changing aspect of college football, and Florida State University (FSU) is no stranger to the ebb and flow of a recruit’s status on the target list. The Seminoles, under head coach Mike Norvell, have consistently demonstrated their ability to secure top-tier talent, but with every cycle, there are changes. Some prospects who once seemed to be prime targets for FSU have seen their standing diminish or have shifted their commitments elsewhere. Here’s a closer look at eight prospects who were once at the top of FSU’s recruiting board but are no longer primary targets.
1. Tyler Williams (Wide Receiver) Once considered one of FSU’s top targets, Tyler Williams, a highly touted wide receiver, has since made a commitment elsewhere, which took him off the Seminoles’ radar. FSU had shown great interest in Williams, but the emergence of other receiver targets and a shifting recruiting focus led to Williams moving away from FSU’s top priority list.
2. Jayden Wayne (Defensive End) Jayden Wayne, a coveted defensive end, was once thought to be a lock for FSU, but his recruitment took a different turn. As his recruitment stretched into his senior year, he made it clear that other programs had gained more of his attention. With FSU focusing on other defensive line recruits, Wayne gradually slipped down the Seminoles’ target list.
3. Sammy Brown (Linebacker) Sammy Brown, a powerful linebacker prospect, had long been on FSU’s radar, but after multiple visits and recruiting battles, it became clear that he was leaning toward other programs, such as Georgia. FSU’s linebacker depth and Brown’s growing interest in other schools have shifted his status from top target to a distant hope.
4. Micah Tease (Wide Receiver) Micah Tease was another wide receiver on FSU’s radar, but after multiple changes in the direction of his recruitment, including his commitment to Oklahoma, FSU no longer pursued him as aggressively. The Seminoles have since focused on other receivers who better fit their system and needs.
5. James Smith (Defensive Tackle) A highly regarded defensive tackle, James Smith had been a top target for FSU, but the competition from programs like Alabama and Georgia has made it difficult for the Seminoles to maintain serious pursuit. As Smith’s recruitment narrowed to a few powerhouse programs, FSU shifted its focus to other defensive prospects.
6. Nicholas Harbour (Athlete) Nicholas Harbour, one of the most athletic prospects in the country, was once on FSU’s radar. However, his recruitment trajectory moved toward other major programs, particularly those with more robust track and field programs. Harbour’s shift in focus and FSU’s limited pursuit of multi-sport athletes led to his removal from the Seminoles’ top target list.
7. Emmanuel Niamiah (Offensive Tackle) Emmanuel Niamiah, an offensive tackle prospect, was initially a priority for FSU’s offensive line class. However, after considering other options and FSU’s focus on securing different prospects for the line, Niamiah’s status with the Seminoles faded, as FSU turned its attention to other key positions.
8. Hakeem Williams (Wide Receiver) Another wide receiver that FSU once heavily pursued was Hakeem Williams. Although FSU had strong interest early on, Williams shifted his focus to programs that better fit his needs. As his recruitment unfolded, FSU’s chances seemed to diminish, and eventually, he found a new home elsewhere, leaving the Seminoles to refocus their efforts.
In the unpredictable world of college football recruiting, things can change rapidly. Players once seen as top priorities can quickly slip down the board, and FSU’s recruiting team has had to adjust its strategy accordingly. Although these eight prospects may no longer be top targets for the Seminoles, FSU continues to recruit at a high level, bringing in promising talent and building for the future. With a constantly evolving landscape, the Seminoles’ recruiting efforts will surely shift, and new players will rise to the top of their target list.
