Florida State is making significant strides in recruiting at just the right moment. After a long dry spell without any commitments for their 2025 class since January, the Seminoles are rapidly closing the gap and assembling one of the nation’s top recruiting classes.
Four-star cornerback announced his commitment to Florida State over Clemson. He is the fifth recruit to join #Tribe25 in just the past week.
As a Florida native, Thomas has been a top target for the Seminoles for some time. Florida State extended an offer last summer and has hosted him on campus several times over the past six months, including an official visit last weekend. The strong, ongoing relationship with head coach Mike Norvell and other staff members ultimately persuaded Thomas to choose Florida State over Clemson.
Additionally, defensive backs coach Patrick Surtain Sr.’s previous role as head coach at American Heritage High School, where Thomas plays, was a significant factor in his decision.
Thomas mentioned to NoleGameday, “During my visit, the coaches and I spent more time connecting on a personal level rather than focusing solely on football. We had many conversations about life, which was really meaningful. I’m coming here to play football, but living here and my comfort with the coaching staff are what matter most to me.”
Though Clemson entered the recruitment race in April and quickly became a serious contender, their status as a threat was evident when they became the only other school he officially visited besides Florida State.
Last season, Thomas had 19 tackles, one tackle for loss, and two interceptions, helping his team reach the playoff semi-finals. He also competes in track with a personal best of 11.56 in the 100-meter dash.
Thomas, a versatile and physically impressive defensive back, is expected to start at cornerback but could play multiple positions in college. His potential is high, and with guidance from Surtain Sr. and defensive coordinator Adam Fuller, he has a strong chance for early playing time in Tallahassee.
With Thomas’s commitment, Florida State’s 2025 class now has nine verbal pledges, advancing from No. 44 to No. 34 nationally. This represents a significant jump of nearly 40 spots in the rankings within a week.
Thomas is the first defensive back in the class, but the Seminoles are also targeting other recruits such as four-star Ben Hanks Jr., four-star Jaboree Antoine, four-star Onis Konanbanny, four-star Jordan Young, four-star Ladarian Clardy, four-star Bryce Fitzgerald, four-star Tony Williams (UCF), four-star JaDon Blair, three-star Max Redmon, and three-star Jett White (Maryland).
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