A Recruiting Rollercoaster
The Seminoles have endured a wave of decommitments in recent weeks, stripping away several high‑profile verbal pledges that had seemed to cement the 2027 class.
Amid the churn, Florida State secured a decisive victory by locking in three‑star linebacker Olrick Johnson III, a prospect who had drawn attention from multiple SEC programs.
Johnson, who announced his decision on social media, cited the coaching staff’s relationship and the program’s defensive scheme as key factors, opting for FSU over Virginia Tech, Georgia Tech, Arkansas, North Carolina State and Nebraska.
His junior season was nothing short of dominant, tallying 100 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss and 12.5 sacks, which propelled him to the No. 1202 spot in the national overall rankings and the No. 107 position among linebackers in the 2027 class.
The commitment bumps the Seminoles’ 2027 class to 13 verbal pledges, lifting the group to No. 55 in the national recruiting rankings and reinforcing a defensive core that already features four‑star linebacker Gernard Albright and three‑star recruit CJ Ohuabunwa.
Beyond the incoming class, Florida State can lean on a seasoned group of linebackers for 2026, including holdovers Omar Graham Jr. and Mikai Gbayor, who bring experience and depth to the unit.
Looking Ahead
Coaches envision Johnson as a cornerstone of a defense that could soon rival the most feared units in the ACC, and his arrival signals a recruiting momentum that could attract additional talent before the next cycle.