Malik Bryant wants to build a bond like no other with Florida State’s Chris Marve

Malik Bryant is a 6’3 210 pound outside linebacker from Orlando, FL.

The Class of 2023 prospect attended Jones High School his first season, but in April he announced he was transferring to IMG Academy:

Bryant already has offers from Arizona State, Georgia Tech, Indiana, Miami (FL), Missouri, Nebraska, Ole Miss, South Carolina, Tennessee, UCF, and West Virginia, among others.

In late April, he was offered by Florida State:

TN caught up with Bryant after his offer to get a better look inside his recruitment:

What was your reaction to the FSU offer?

“I was excited when I received the offer, not even from the football stand point, just knowing it’s a lot of tradition and history at Florida State.”

Who did you speak to and what was that conversation like?

“Coach Chris Marve told me I had the offer, and that conversation was amazing. I was surprised—he told me I was the first kid he offered in the Class of 23, and I definitely told him the road doesn’t end here, thanks for the opportunity, and I’m [going to] continue to work and hopefully we can build a bond like no other.”

When you think about Florida State, what are some things that come to mind immediately?

“The chant, the atmosphere, and TRADITION!”

Do you plan to visit FSU when the Dead Period is over?

“Yes, I plan on visiting when the Dead Period is over.”

What other schools do you hope/plan to visit?

“I plan on visiting Georgia Tech again, Arizona State, and Miami (FL).”

How would you describe your game?

“I describe my game as a versatile tool—I can read the run really well, drop back in coverage and rush the passer, and I’ll say it’s a chess game when I’m on the field—my opponent can study me all day, but it’s always going to something new, and he’ll never know what my next move is.”

What player(s) do you look up to/model your game after?

“I compare my game to DE Nick Bosa because his ability to get off the line [is] more explosive than most defensive ends in the league, and his speed and power [are] tremendous. Also a former player, Ray Lewis, and his ability to read and react quickly and the way he just studied the game of football so much. He is who I try and compare myself to.”

What are the biggest things you’re looking for in a school?

“First and foremost, I’m looking for a brotherhood/family—somewhere it feels [like] another home away from home. I have to be comfortable in the environment, and it [has] to be love.”