FSU football: Members of the 2023 recruiting class are arriving to campus

Tribe23 was one to remember

FSU football had a productive 2023 recruiting class, which includes prospects such as five-star wide receiver Hykeem Williams, four-star offensive tackle Lucas Simmons, and four-star defensive tackle Lamont Green Jr., among others (enrolled this spring).

Summer enrollees incoming

However, the Seminoles have ten prospects and one transfer who have arrived this summer, which provides much-needed depth for a roster that could be challenging to compete for a national championship. The list of players includes the following:

-RB Sam Singleton Jr.
-WR Darren “Goldie” Lawrence
-WR Keon Coleman (transfer)
-OT Andre Otto
-DT Keith “KJ” Sampson
-LB Blake Nichelson
-LB Dylan Brown-Turner
-CB Ja’Bril Rawls
-CB Edwin Joseph Jr.
-S Conrad Hussey
-S Ashlynd Barker (JUCO)

Some of the prospects need to enroll during the spring. However, some high schools do not allow early enrollments. Safety Conrad Hussey from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Fort Lauderdale was one example.

Who is the biggest contributor from the bunch?

All in all, the Seminoles still added certified playmakers to their roster that could make a difference. Former Michigan State wide receiver transfer Keon Coleman will most likely make the most contributions as FSU acquired him from the transfer portal to pair him alongside 6’7″ Johnny Wilson on the outside.

During the 2022 season with the Spartans, Coleman had 58 receptions for 798 yards and seven touchdowns. I could envision him being one of the top receiver contributors in the conference for 2023.

Other honorable mentions

As for other players to monitor, I would turn my attention to linebacker Blake Nichelson and safety Conrad Hussey.

I get that the linebacker room has pieces such as veterans Tatum Bethune, Kalen DeLoach, and DJ Lundy. However, could redshirt freshman Omar Graham Jr. challenge for the fourth linebacker spot? Even if Nichelson does not play much this season as a linebacker, I could see him competing for meaningful reps at full-back. During his senior season at Manteca (Ca.), he had 208 rushing attempts for 2,231 yards and 36 touchdowns.

As for Hussey, I have discussed the need for more safeties in the rotation. The talented defensive back has what it takes to make a difference in a room starving for depth. His ability to cover in space, locate the football well, and be an effective tackler when needed stands out about his skill set.