3-star defensive end Derrick McLendon signs with Florida State

Three-star defensive end Derrick McLendon follows through his commitment and is signing with Florida State.

The Florida State staff pursued McLendon heavily in the spring and summer until they were able to get a commitment. Coach Mark Snyder made McLendon feel like part of the family and made him feel like an important part of the Noles future. FSU was able to hold off North Carolina State for McLendon over the summer and he has been a vocal recruiter for the Noles ever since. McLendon had other offers but those two schools were the main players for his services.

McLendon is the 37th ranked weakside defensive end nationally and the 57th best player in Georgia.

In McLendon, FSU lands a two way end who could line up on the strong or weak side of the defense. McLendon plays with good leverage and uses his hands well for a high school player. There is enough first step quickness shown by McLendon to project pass rush ability at the next level.

Watching McLendon’s film it’s apparent that his effort level is always at the maximum level. McLendon will bring an energy and effort that the Seminole defense has missed. Mix effort and an innate ability to get to the quarterback and you have a solid defensive end prospect waiting in the wings for the Noles.

To keep up with all of Florida State’s moves during this Early Signing Period, be sure to check back regularly with our tracker.