Florida State Closing In on a Top-20 Recruiting Class With Two Major Targets Expected to Decide by the End of the Early Signing Period
As the Early Signing Period for college football recruits nears its conclusion, Florida State University (FSU) is poised to finalize one of its most impressive recruiting classes in recent memory. Head coach Mike Norvell and his staff have already secured a top-tier group of commitments for the 2024 cycle, but with two major targets still on the board, the Seminoles could finish with a top-20 recruiting class nationally. As the final days of the Early Signing Period approach, Florida State fans are eagerly anticipating the decisions of two highly coveted prospects who could push the Seminoles even higher in the recruiting rankings.
Florida State has been on an upward trajectory in recent years, and the 2024 recruiting cycle is no exception. After a strong 2023 season, which included a victory in the Cheez-It Bowl and a return to national relevance, FSU has been able to attract some of the top talent from around the country. Norvell’s ability to develop players and create a winning culture has resonated with recruits, and the Seminoles have built one of the most promising classes in the nation.
As of now, Florida State is firmly in the top-20 nationally in recruiting, a significant improvement for the program as it continues to reestablish itself as a powerhouse in the ACC. With a mix of talented playmakers on both sides of the ball, the Seminoles are set to add depth and skill at nearly every position. However, two final recruits—one on offense and one on defense—could make this class even more special.
The first major target is 5-star wide receiver, Jalen Washington. Washington has been one of the most sought-after wideouts in the 2024 class, and his commitment could be a game-changer for Florida State’s offense. At 6’4” and 205 pounds, Washington is a physically gifted player who excels at high-pointing the ball, running precise routes, and creating separation from defenders. His blend of size, speed, and football IQ makes him a perfect fit for FSU’s system, where he could become a key weapon in the passing game alongside Florida State’s current group of playmakers.
Washington had long been considering several top programs, but Florida State has been a consistent presence in his recruitment, and his decision will likely come down to the relationship he has built with Norvell and the FSU coaching staff. Washington’s decision is expected to come before the end of the Early Signing Period, and if he signs with Florida State, it would be a huge win for the program.
The second major target is 4-star defensive lineman, David “DJ” Hargrove. Hargrove is a dominant force on the defensive line, known for his ability to disrupt plays in the backfield and generate consistent pressure on quarterbacks. The 6’5”, 280-pound defensive tackle has been a priority for the Seminoles since the beginning of the recruiting cycle, and his commitment could significantly improve Florida State’s defensive line depth. Hargrove is an explosive, powerful athlete with the versatility to play both defensive tackle and defensive end, making him an ideal fit for the Seminoles’ defensive scheme.
Hargrove is currently weighing his options between several top programs, but Florida State has made a strong push in recent weeks. His decision is expected to be made by the end of the Early Signing Period, and the Seminoles are optimistic about their chances of landing the talented defensive lineman. Hargrove’s ability to impact games from the interior of the defensive line could help elevate Florida State’s defense to the next level.
Securing both Jalen Washington and DJ Hargrove would be a massive coup for Florida State and could propel the Seminoles’ 2024 recruiting class into the top-15 or even top-10 nationally. Washington’s addition would further bolster an already talented group of wide receivers, giving quarterback Jordan Travis and the FSU offense even more explosive weapons to work with. Florida State’s offensive attack, which was already one of the most efficient in the ACC last season, would become even more potent with Washington in the fold.
Meanwhile, Hargrove’s commitment would add an elite pass rusher to an already strong defensive line. FSU’s defense has shown significant improvement under Norvell’s leadership, and Hargrove’s ability to generate pressure would make the Seminoles’ front seven even more formidable. Florida State’s defensive line would be able to better disrupt opposing offenses, providing the defense with more opportunities to get off the field and create turnovers.
With two major targets still on the board, Florida State is primed to finish the Early Signing Period with an even stronger class than initially anticipated. Washington and Hargrove would not only strengthen the Seminoles in key areas but also send a message to future recruits about the upward trajectory of the program.
Florida State has firmly established itself as a contender in the ACC and nationally, and with Norvell’s leadership, the program’s future looks incredibly promising. The Seminoles’ ability to secure these final commitments would be a testament to the hard work and persistence of the coaching staff, and it would position FSU for continued success in the coming seasons.
As the Early Signing Period comes to a close, Florida State fans are hopeful that the Seminoles will add two more elite talents to their already impressive class, solidifying their place among college football’s elite programs for years to come.