Florida State Seminoles football has a connection with Louisiana — both current (Corey Wren, Ja’Khi Douglas and Sidney Williams, along with recruiting coordinator/running backs coach David “YAC” Johnson) and past (Warrick Dunn comes to mind, among others).
We’ve compiled our interviews and analysis on the Bayou State names FSU is looking to bring aboard as part of its 2021 recruiting class.
Defensive end Byron Turner Jr.
Analysis, by CoachAB
Turner is a long, lean 4-3 DE that DE coach John Papuchis needs desperately. The Florida State offer was one that Turner was “pumped” about and the FSU staff closed the deal.
A good first step allows Turner to gain advantage on the tackle then he allows his athleticism to do the rest. Being loose in the hips should allow Turner to develop more pass rushing skills as he gets into the college game.
Finally, Turner possesses serious length from the end position. You love a DE who can use their long arms to disrupt passing lanes or, in the case of this play, pluck the QB off the ground. This is also a benefit in the pass rush department because Turner can now keep tackles from engaging his chest.
One player that came to mind immediately when watching Turner was former Florida State and San Fransisco 49ers end Tank Carradine. If Turner can put on the size (Carradine was 270), they could have very similar games.
Interview with Josh Pick:
What was your reaction to the offer?
“It was emotional for me because growing up my pops loved Florida State, and we always talked about me playing football at FSU and what he would do if I got the offer, and now [those] talks and dreams are coming true.”
When you think of Florida State, what players, games, or traditions come to mind?
“[Jameis] Winston going on that two year run and only losing 1 game.”
Special shoutout to @CoachYACJohnson #Blessed@foster20504 @Coach_Norvell pic.twitter.com/QPAmV17NwS
— DaBoogieMan (@ByronTurnerJr) July 23, 2020
What do you like to do for fun outside of football?
“I like to go fishing and hunting.”
What’s something about you people might not know?
“Boxing [is] my favorite sport.”
What are the biggest things you’re looking for in a school when making your final decision?
“The defense that’s [run], the talent that’s there and coming in, and my relationship with the coaches.”
Linebacker Andrew Jones
Interview with Josh Pick (Mar. 2020)
Even though 247 lists him as an ILB, he said the coaches at Florida State see him outside (WILL).
He said FSU is showing they want him “really bad.”
As for how quickly he could play if he chooses the Seminoles?
“I don’t know how quickly I could play. That part is up to me and how hard I work for it.”
Where does FSU stack up for you right now; would you consider them your leader?
“Yes, they are my leader. They are my dream school.”
Wide receiver Keon Coleman
State of Recruiting analysis by Tim Scribble and NoleThruandThru (Mar. 2020)
Coleman is also a star on the hardwood and track, and he uses that athleticism to make an impact on both sides of the ball. He has an ideal frame for WR, standing a legit 6’4” with the ability to add another 25-30 pounds of muscle without losing his athleticism. He can stretch the field and is deceptively fast with his long-striding style. Coleman likely has the highest ceiling of the WR recruits FSU is pursuing, but is raw in some technical areas. He has a tendency to rely too much on his athleticism against weaker competition. However, get this—Coleman caught 35 balls last year, and a staggering 22 went for touchdowns. If he puts it all together, he’ll be in the NFL.
Interview with Josh Pick (May 2020)
TN was in touch with Coleman since before the Seminoles offered, and it actually started when the talented receiver sent us his highlight video.
We let him know we liked what we saw and asked about his interest in Florida State. He told us he was definitely interested and planned to visit in the spring; he was just waiting on the offer. He added: “Gonna be fun.”
Eventually, recruiting coordinator and running backs coach David Johnson (also the area recruiter for Louisiana) extended the offer, and Coleman was quite pleased: “I was excited for them to give me a chance to continue my academic and athletic career.”
Running back Ke’Travion Hargrove
Interview with Josh Pick (July 2020)
How would you describe your style of play?
“All around fast.”
What player(s) do you look up to/model your game after?
“I try to run like Alvin Kamara and Marshawn Lynch.”
What are the biggest things you’re looking for in a school when making your final decision?
“A place that will get me to the next level.”
Thank yu for the offer (Florida State University) @CoachYACJohnson pic.twitter.com/bcigRgAnAO
— Big Bull❄️ (@bulldagreat) June 8, 2020
Wide receiver Destyn “Fatt” Hill (formerly “Pazon”)
State of Recruiting analysis by Tim Scribble and NoleThruandThru (Mar. 2020)
“Fatt” is a beast at receiver and is nearly impossible to cover on the outside. He is deceptively quick and has a natural feel for getting into open pockets. He has a tendency to use his body a bit too much for catches and isn’t the most athletic, but his strengths far exceed his areas of growth. He will likely be the most polished WR on FSU’s board and safest to project as a very productive player, and would immediately challenge for serious reps in the rotation. He’s a future NFL player.