The Seminoles enter the 2026 campaign with a thin tight end room that has become a focal point of discussion among coaches and analysts alike. With only a handful of scholarship players and a few gambles on unproven talent, the staff is betting on both development and strategic recruitment to fill the void.
Central to the plan is the transition of Desirrio Riles into the Power Four environment, a move that hinges on his ability to stay healthy alongside Landen Thomas and Chase Loftin. The trio’s availability will set the tone for the offense, especially in a schedule that demands versatility and depth.
A New Recruit in the Mix
Adding to the mix, Florida State recently extended a scholarship to 2028 prospect AJ Criss, a 6‑foot‑7, 205‑pound athlete who first caught attention on the basketball court. Criss’s sophomore campaign saw him reel in 34 passes for 574 yards and eight touchdowns, earning All‑Area Offensive Newcomer honors and a first‑team All‑District nod. His dual‑sport background suggests a high ceiling if he can translate that athleticism to the gridiron full‑time.
The early commitment from Criss, alongside two other verbal pledges in the 2028 class, has helped the Seminoles maintain a No. 7 national ranking for that recruiting cycle. The staff also holds two tight ends in the 2026 class and a pledge in each of the upcoming cycles, signaling a deliberate effort to build a sustainable pipeline at the position.
Implications for the Program
Beyond the immediate roster concerns, the moves reflect a broader strategy of investing in youth while leveraging existing relationships with programs like Texas Tech to secure talent early. If the health of Riles, Thomas and Loftin holds, the Seminoles could see a dramatic uplift in offensive flexibility, turning a potential weakness into a competitive advantage as they aim for a stronger finish in the upcoming season.