**FSU Seminoles Confirm Signing of Four-Star Recruit Amidst Recent De-Commitments**
In a tumultuous period for the Florida State Seminoles, the team has recently experienced a mix of significant recruitment news. Just as FSU fans were greeted with the announcement of a new four-star commitment, the team has also faced the disappointment of losing two high-profile recruits.
The latest development comes as FSU officially confirms the signing of a highly-rated four-star player, a much-needed boost for a team reeling from a rocky start to the 2024 season. However, this positive news is tempered by recent departures from the recruiting class. Four-star defensive end Javion Hilson, one of the top defensive prospects, has announced his de-commitment from FSU via his X (formerly Twitter) account. This marks the second significant blow in as many days for the Seminoles.
The loss of Hilson follows closely on the heels of four-star defensive tackle Myron Charles flipping his commitment to the Texas Longhorns. Both Hilson and Charles were among FSU’s highest-ranked defensive commitments, filling critical positions of need. The defensive end position, in particular, has been a challenge for FSU to recruit effectively. Despite their success in developing defensive players into NFL First Round Draft picks, landing top-tier high school defensive ends has been elusive.
Currently, FSU’s recruiting class stands at 11 commitments, with a national ranking of No. 34. The Seminoles have only one defensive lineman left committed, four-star defensive tackle Kevin Wynn, and no defensive ends secured as the Early Signing Period approaches in just three months.
The timing of these de-commitments raises concerns about the team’s stability and future. With the Seminoles struggling at 0-2 in the current season, the pressure is mounting. The upcoming game against the Memphis Tigers will be a crucial test. A continued lack of success on the field could lead to further de-commitments from the class.
While Hilson’s final decision isn’t expected until December, and he hasn’t entirely ruled out a return to FSU, the likelihood of him staying with the Seminoles appears slim. Having previously committed to Alabama before Nick Saban’s retirement, Hilson may lean towards an SEC program, potentially filling one of the many vacancies in the conference.
For FSU, the situation underscores the need for a potential overhaul. If the Seminoles fail to stabilize their performance and retain their recruiting class, a comprehensive rebuild may be necessary to realign the program with its competitive goals and support head coach Mike Norvell in his efforts to restore FSU to prominence.
