FSU Faces SEC Running Back Loss, Pursues Elite 2027 Quarterbacks

Florida State University's football recruiting efforts face challenges, particularly at the running back and quarterback positions. Four-star running back Amari Thomas decommitted from Florida State's 2026 class and committed to South Carolina, leaving FSU without a running back commitment for 2026 and 2027; meanwhile, four-star running back Tyson Robinson remains a target for the Seminoles and is expected to visit for the Alabama game. The Seminoles are actively pursuing top quarterback prospects for the 2027 class, including five-star Kavian Bryant from Texas, who has already received an offer and visited Tallahassee, and Braylen Warren, a four-star quarterback from Nebraska considering a visit. FSU coaches have signed blue-chip quarterbacks in every recruiting cycle since 2022, though development has been hindered by poor offensive line play; however, with new offensive line coach Herb Hand, the team expects improvements that could help quarterbacks like Bryant and Thomas Castellanos succeed. At the University of Florida, J. Michael Sturdivant, a former UCLA receiver, transferred to the Gators for the 2025 season, motivated partly by reconnecting with former UF quarterback Graham Mertz and inspired by the success of other transfer receivers at Florida under coach Billy Napier. Sturdivant aims to contribute his speed and experience to Florida's young receiving corps, adding to the team's offensive depth.