FSU football: 4-star linebacker prospects receive predictions to the Noles

FSU football has generated a ton of momentum on the recruiting trail thus far due to their efforts on the gridiron. They have certainly showcased that they can develop players into something special if they are willing to put in the work.

While everyone wants to discuss the Seminoles’ 2024 recruiting class (and for good reason), the 2025 edition is not too shabby either. The coaching staff currently has pledges from four-star linebacker Ethan Pritchard from Sanford (FL) and three-star quarterback Tramell Jones Jr. from Jacksonville (FL).

Speaking of Pritchard, the talented linebacker prospect unofficially visited Tallahassee when the Seminoles took on the Duke Blue Devils. After the much-needed victory over a top-25 opponent, the Seminole High School standout pledged his commitment to Florida State.

At one point in time, fans were heavily critical of linebacker recruiting given that the Seminoles had not recruited enough difference-makers at the position. However, linebackers coach Randy Shannon added four-star Blake Nichelson, three-star DeMarco Ward, and three-star Dylan Brown-Turner in the 2023 cycle. They have already started acquiring pieces in 2024 with three-stars Jayden Parrish and Timir Hickman-Collins.

However, Florida State has to continue gaining viable pieces in their rotation with redshirt seniors Kalen DeLoach and Tatum Bethune exceeding their eligibilities after this season. Both of these veterans are pivotal to the success of FSU’s defense. The best way to counteract these losses is by stacking talent on the recruiting trail and in the transfer portal.

On Tuesday afternoon, Noles247 Contributor Zach Blostein put in a crystal ball prediction in favor of Florida State with a confidence level of 6 out of 10 for Class of 2025 four-star linebacker Darrell Johnson from Dodge County High School in Eastman, Georgia. Johnson was in attendance at the Swamp for the Seminoles’ 24-15 victory over their arch-rival Florida Gators.

The rich just seem to keep getting richer as on Wednesday afternoon, Florida State received three crystal ball predictions from 247Sports National Recruiting Editor Brandon Huffman, 247Sports Director of Football Recruiting Steve Wiltfong, and Noles247 Contributor Zach Blostein for Class of 2025 four-star linebacker Zaydrius Rainey-Sale from Bethel High School in Spanaway, Washington. It is notable to mention that Rainey-Sale came all the way down to Tallahassee to come on an unofficial visit to watch Florida State take on North Alabama.

The future seems to be bright at the linebacker position for the Florida State Seminoles.