Part V of the FSU football recruiting and transfer tracker: Monitoring every player’s movement

As Florida State University (FSU) continues to build on its football program’s momentum, the recruiting and transfer portal landscape has been one of the most dynamic elements of Mike Norvell’s strategy for success. In recent years, the Seminoles have become a force in the ACC, and with the ever-evolving nature of college football recruiting, the transfer portal has been crucial in keeping FSU competitive in the race for championships. For fans, keeping track of every movement, every commitment, and every transfer has become part of the offseason ritual.

This is Part V of the FSU Football Recruiting and Transfer Tracker, where we break down all of the latest player movements, from incoming freshmen to transfer portal additions and exits. This comprehensive overview highlights how the Seminoles’ roster is shaping up for the 2025 season, with a focus on key additions and departures. We’ll also explore how these movements will impact the program’s performance and its long-term goals under Norvell’s leadership.

Incoming Freshmen: Building the Foundation for the Future

Florida State’s recruiting efforts continue to yield impressive results, with several key incoming freshmen ready to make an immediate impact in the 2025 season. Under Mike Norvell, FSU has not only managed to secure high-profile recruits but has also focused on filling key positions with players who fit the program’s style of play.

Brock Glenn (Quarterback)

Brock Glenn, one of the top quarterbacks in the 2025 recruiting class, has officially committed to FSU, and his arrival in Tallahassee has Seminoles fans buzzing. Glenn, who comes from the prestigious Lipscomb Academy in Tennessee, is considered a dual-threat quarterback with excellent arm strength, vision, and leadership. While the starting job is likely to remain with Jordan Travis for the 2025 season, Glenn’s presence will be pivotal as the future of the Seminoles’ offense.

Norvell’s coaching staff is excited about Glenn’s potential and his readiness to compete at a high level early in his career. Glenn’s ability to make plays with his arm, combined with his athleticism, will allow him to contribute on the practice field immediately. Though he may start off as a backup, expect Glenn to take significant reps throughout the season, setting him up for success in future years as the Seminoles look to transition at quarterback post-Travis.

Hykeem Williams (Wide Receiver)

Hykeem Williams, a 5-star wide receiver from Fort Lauderdale, is one of the most exciting prospects to join FSU’s receiving corps in recent memory. Williams brings a blend of size, speed, and route-running precision that makes him an immediate deep threat in the Seminoles’ high-octane offense. Standing at 6’4” and weighing 210 pounds, Williams has the physical tools to compete with ACC defenders right away. His ability to stretch the field vertically, coupled with his skill at making contested catches, positions him as a key contributor in 2025.

Given FSU’s stable of talented wide receivers, Williams will be able to learn from veterans like Johnny Wilson and Keon Coleman. However, his potential for immediate impact in key games cannot be understated. Look for him to carve out a major role in both the passing game and special teams.

Keldric Faulk (Defensive Line)

Keldric Faulk, a 5-star defensive lineman from Alabama, is one of the most highly anticipated recruits in FSU’s 2025 class. Known for his explosiveness, strength, and motor, Faulk is expected to make an immediate impact on FSU’s defensive line. At 6’5” and 270 pounds, Faulk has the size to play multiple positions along the front seven, and his skill set as a pass rusher will add a much-needed dimension to the Seminoles’ defense.

Faulk is expected to compete for playing time immediately and could be a fixture in the rotation early in the season. With the departure of several veteran defenders, Faulk’s development will be essential in ensuring that FSU’s defensive line remains one of the top units in the ACC.

Blake Nicholson (Linebacker)

Blake Nicholson, a highly rated linebacker from California, joins FSU’s defense as a versatile, athletic presence who can contribute both against the run and in pass coverage. Nicholson’s speed, instincts, and tackling ability make him a perfect fit for FSU’s aggressive defensive schemes. At 6’2” and 220 pounds, he has the physical tools to thrive as either an inside or outside linebacker.

As FSU continues to develop its defense under Norvell, Nicholson could emerge as one of the leaders in the linebacking corps. Expect him to compete for significant playing time in 2025, especially in nickel and dime packages where his ability to cover ground quickly and make plays in space will be crucial.

Transfer Portal Additions: Filling Key Gaps with Proven Talent

In addition to recruiting high school prospects, FSU has also been aggressive in utilizing the transfer portal to address immediate needs. This strategy has already paid dividends, as several transfer players have made significant contributions to the Seminoles’ success in recent seasons. For the 2025 season, FSU has added several key players from the portal to bolster the roster and address positional weaknesses.

Jared Verse (Defensive Line – Transfer from Albany)

Jared Verse, a defensive lineman who transferred from Albany, quickly became one of FSU’s top performers after joining the team for the 2023 season. Verse’s combination of size, power, and speed made him an instant impact player for the Seminoles’ defense. Heading into the 2025 season, Verse is expected to continue to be a leader on the defensive line and a key player in the rotation.

As FSU looks to build on its defensive success, Verse’s presence will continue to be a significant factor. With Faulk joining the defensive line and other key returnees, Verse will help anchor the Seminoles’ pass rush and make life difficult for opposing quarterbacks.

Johnny Wilson (Wide Receiver – Transfer from Arizona State)

Johnny Wilson’s transfer from Arizona State was one of the most significant moves in recent FSU history. The 6’7” wide receiver has the size and athleticism to create mismatches against ACC defenses, and his ability to win contested catches has made him a key target in FSU’s passing game. Wilson quickly developed a strong connection with quarterback Jordan Travis, and he emerged as one of the most dominant wide receivers in the conference in 2024.

Heading into the 2025 season, Wilson will once again be a focal point of the offense, drawing the attention of opposing defenses. His size and athleticism, combined with the continued development of the offense, will make him one of the most dangerous weapons in the ACC.

Keon Coleman (Wide Receiver – Transfer from Michigan State)

Keon Coleman, a transfer from Michigan State, immediately made waves in FSU’s receiving corps, earning praise for his ability to make plays at all levels of the field. At 6’4” and 215 pounds, Coleman is a physical receiver with excellent ball skills, and his ability to stretch the field vertically is a significant asset for FSU’s offense. In 2025, Coleman will play an important role as a complementary piece to Johnny Wilson, with both wide receivers making life easier for quarterback Jordan Travis.

Coleman’s ability to make contested catches and create separation on deep routes gives FSU a dangerous one-two punch at the wide receiver position. He will be key in FSU’s efforts to dominate on offense and add balance to the passing game.

Departures: Players Entering the Transfer Portal and NFL Draft

The transfer portal has not only brought talent to FSU, but it has also seen several players depart for new opportunities. Some players have chosen to enter the transfer portal in search of more playing time, while others are heading to the NFL in hopes of fulfilling their professional dreams. Here’s a look at some of the key departures:

Offensive Linemen Departures

FSU has seen a few offensive linemen leave the program through the transfer portal or choose to declare for the NFL Draft. These departures will likely have an impact on depth for the offensive line, but FSU’s coaching staff has been aggressive in both recruiting and portal additions to ensure the line remains strong. In the 2025 class, FSU has added several offensive line prospects that will help fill the void.

Defensive Back Departures

A few defensive backs have also entered the transfer portal, seeking new opportunities to start at other programs. FSU’s secondary remains strong, with several key players returning, but the loss of depth in the defensive backfield will require young players to step up. Incoming freshmen and transfers will need to adapt quickly to ensure the Seminoles maintain a competitive edge in pass coverage.

The 2025 Outlook: Strong Depth and Competition Across the Board

As we approach the 2025 season, Florida State’s football roster is in excellent shape, with a solid balance of experienced veterans and talented young players. The influx of talented freshmen, combined with proven transfer additions, sets the Seminoles up for success both in the short term and in the years to come. The program’s ability to secure high-profile recruits, along with its savvy use of the transfer portal, has created an exciting and dynamic roster that will challenge for an ACC title and a spot in the College Football Playoff.

Mike Norvell has proven that he is capable of adapting to the changing landscape of college football, and the 2025 season will be another critical step in his ongoing efforts to return FSU to national prominence. The combination of incoming freshmen, key transfers, and the development of existing talent ensures that FSU will remain a strong contender in the ACC and on the national stage.

Fans can look forward to watching several young athletes emerge as stars in the 2025 season. From the quarterback position to the defensive line, FSU has the pieces in place to challenge for major titles, and the excitement around the team is higher than ever. As the offseason continues and the season approaches, the Seminoles’ fans have plenty to be excited about as they look to make another run at greatness.