Florida State’s quest to secure a top-tier quarterback for their 2026 recruiting class continues to be a challenging journey. Since parting ways with four-star Brady Smigiel earlier this year, head coach Mike Norvell and his staff have faced an uphill battle in landing a standout signal-caller who can lead the charge for #Tribe26.
The recruitment waters have been a bit rough for the Seminoles lately, as evidenced by five-star Keisean Henderson canceling his campus visit, and four-star Bowe Bentley deciding to look elsewhere. These developments have left a void in the quarterback slot that Florida State is eager to fill.
Adding to the recruiting headaches, four-star QB Landon Duckworth has recently narrowed his focus to South Carolina and Auburn, opting out of his visit to Tallahassee that was planned for mid-June. Duckworth’s decision comes as a setback, especially considering his impressive junior year at Jackson High School where he led his team to a phenomenal 14-1 season. Duckworth’s on-field prowess showcased his ability to throw for over 3,400 yards and notch up 39 touchdowns, supported by his versatility in rushing for another 648 yards and 12 additional scores.
At 6-foot-3 and 195 pounds, Duckworth is a formidable presence on the field, and 247Sports ranks him as the No. 50 overall prospect and the No. 6 quarterback in the nation. His departure from FSU’s radar underscores the challenge the Seminoles face in transforming early interest into commitments.
With Duckworth focusing elsewhere, the spotlight for Florida State now turns to Jaden O’Neal, a four-star talent committed to Oklahoma. O’Neal’s presence in Tallahassee a few weeks back, and his plans to return again, keeps hopes alive. Yet, his pledge to the Sooners adds another layer of complexity, particularly if Oklahoma lands Bentley, prompting speculation about O’Neal’s future commitments.
Despite these recruitment hiccups, Florida State’s 2026 class is shaping up, featuring strong commitments from four-star talents like wide receivers Efrem White and Darryon Williams, and running back Amari Thomas. On the defensive side, Florida State secured pledges from standout defensive backs like Darryl Bell III and Tedarius Hughes. The offensive and defensive lines are bolstered by the likes of Michael Ionata and Wihtlley Cadeau, positioning the Seminoles with a balanced foundation looking forward.
For the 2025 season, Florida State will rely on the leadership of senior Tommy Castellanos and the development of players like junior Jaylen King, and redshirt sophomores Brock Glenn and Michael Grant. Freshmen Kevin Sperry and Gavin Markey round out a depth chart filled with youthful promise but that still needs a standout leader to navigate through competitive collegiate challenges.
Florida State’s continued efforts in recruiting bear watching, especially given their recent offer to the son of an NFL legend and Heisman Trophy winner, which might just provide the spark the Seminoles need to reignite their recruiting fortunes. The road might be rocky now, but with the seamless blend of tenacity and talent, the Seminoles have the tools to craft a successful future.
