Tre Lawson brings size, power to Florida State defensive line

The Florida State coaching staff’s late-season surge on the recruiting trail saw the Seminoles land a number of commits over December and January while the ramp-up to National Signing Day was underway. One such signee, Tre Lawson, is a good example of how FSU closes each recruiting cycle so strong.

Lawson, a three-star strong-side defensive end per the 247Sports composite rankings, measures in at an impressive 6’6, 240 pounds. Lawson, hailing from North Augusta (S.C.), is a three-star end with all of the major outlets except for ESPN, which has him listed as a four-star. Per the composite rankings, he is the No. 741 overall player, No. 33 strong-side defensive end, and No. 9 player from South Carolina in the 2017 recruiting class.

FSU was the first FBS program to offer Lawson, but his first commitment was to Tennessee while on an unofficial visit in Knoxville last June. However, after taking no visits of any sort over the 2016 season, Lawson abruptly decommitted from UT on December 16th. The next month, Lawson took an official visit to FSU and committed while visiting on January 15th.

In addition to Tennessee and Florida State, Lawson held offers from USC, Oregon, Louisville, Ole Miss, South Carolina, USF, Kentucky, and Illinois.

Lawson is one of two defensive ends currently in Florida State’s 2017 recruiting class and serves as a nice compliment to Josh Kaindoh, FSU’s five-star weak-side defensive end early enrollee.

Included below is our scouting report on Lawson, from a high school coach on our staff.

Lawson is a player you want getting off the bus first. He is a legit 6’6, 240 lb defensive end with the frame to add 20-30 more pounds. Combine that with the length and athleticism that Lawson possesses and he has the potential to be a future NFL draft pick.

As a DE, his length allows him to contain the edge of the defense, get separation from offensive lineman, and get his hands up to disrupt or deflect passes. He has great hands and uses them - often engaging his offensive lineman, recognizing the quick pass, dropping back and making the interception.

Lawson also has the ability to accelerate off the ball and make tackles behind the line of scrimmage. He beats offensive lineman out of their stance with his quickness while staying square, using his length to corral ball carriers. Lawson also shows the ability to bend and be flexible, which will be crucial to his development as he learns to consistently play lower and hold ground vs the run.

With his size and through-the-roof potential, this is a prospect FSU fans should be thrilled about as he gets on campus and works under Brad Lawing.