FSU commits at The Opening: Friday recap

The Opening, presented by Nike, is the biggest stage of the summer for blue-chip high-school recruits, and Florida State commits made their mark this weekend in Beaverton, Oregon. Here are a few notes about the future Seminoles involved in this week's action:

• Malik Henry, a five-star quarterback committed to FSU, improved dramatically as The Opening transpired, leading Team Mach Speed, which included all seven 'Nole commits, to a runner-up finish over other squads populated by future LSU and 'Bama players. Henry went 18-25 in the final game, including a touchdown toss to Seminole-to-be Isaac Nauta, with whom he displayed fantastic chemistry all week. The former IMG Academy teammates seem to have a real feel for each other on the field.
• The nation's top cornerback recruit, FSU-commit Levonta Taylor, more than backed up his top billing, routinely shutting down his side of the field. Taylor is beyond active, often ranging across the gridiron to disrupt plays made well outside his responsibility. He's an immense competitor who will be well suited in a Tallahassee defensive backfield currently marshaled by Jalen Ramsey and soon to be captained by Derwin James-- Taylor is cut from the same take-no-prisoners cloth.
• Jamel Cook, the rangy Miami athlete committed to the 'Noles, impressed as well. Although Florida State coaches are eying him at the Star position, closer to the line of scrimmage, his length nevertheless gives him the option to play safety also.

All things considered, this was a very nice weekend for future Seminoles, as FSU continues to reassert its brand as a national recruiting powerhouse capable of pulling players from across the country.