Florida State’s 2026 recruiting class is showing great potential, having secured two commitments in recent months and being in the running for some of the nation’s top talent. However, it’s important to acknowledge that not every recruiting battle will be won.
Four-star talented player announced he was committing to Alabama over FSU, LSU, and Clemson. The Crimson Tide got him last visit before his decision as he was on campus for a junior day earlier this month.
The Seminoles made an offer in January when he visited Tallahassee for a junior day event. Given that his commitment to Alabama is happening early in the recruiting process, it wouldn’t be surprising if the highly-rated prospect visits other schools during the summer or fall.
If Matthews does explore other options, Florida State could try to re-enter the competition. New defensive line coach Terrance Knighton has a strong track record from his time at Nebraska, where he brought in notable talent. The expectation is that he will continue to build on that success with the Seminoles.
Matthews just finished a junior season in which he recorded 57 tackles, 29 tackles for loss, 17 sacks, one forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries.
The 6-foot-2, 240-pound defensive end is ranked as the No. 200 overall prospect, the No. 17 EDGE, and the No. 26 recruit in Georgia for the 2026 class according to 247Sports.
Florida State currently has seven verbal commitments in its 2026 class, which is ranked No. 11 nationally.
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