Yesterday’s Poll Results

Today’s Poll

🏹 Welcome to The Chief Brief! 🏹

Merry Christmas Eve, Seminole!

Here’s what this mostly-portal-updates edition has in store for you:

🛡️ FSU Makes a Strong Push for Ole Miss OL Transfer Micah Pettus 🛡️
A standout visit and rave reviews position Florida State as a frontrunner for this seasoned SEC lineman.

🏆 FSU Commit Brady Smigiel Named High School Football Player of the Year 🏆
Newbury Park’s star QB dazzled this season, solidifying his reputation as one of the nation’s top young talents.

🚪 FSU WR Malik Benson Enters Transfer Portal After One Season 🚪
The former JUCO standout moves on, leaving a gap in FSU’s receiving corps.

🌟 FSU in the Mix for 2026 TE Prospect Kaiden Prothro 🌟
With his championship pedigree, Prothro has Georgia leading the pack, but FSU remains in contention.

🔍 FSU Among Top Programs Targeting 2026 DB Ayden Pouncey 🔍
The Seminoles are in the mix for this ball-hawking safety, ranked as one of the top DBs in his class.

🛠️ FSU Builds Roster Through Transfer Portal: Who’s In, Who’s Next, and What’s Needed 🛠️
A detailed breakdown of FSU’s transfer portal success and the gaps they still need to fill for 2025.

🛡️ FSU Makes a Strong Push for Ole Miss OL Transfer Micah Pettus 🛡️

Florida State’s commitment to bolstering its offensive line through the NCAA Transfer Portal continues to pay off, with Ole Miss transfer Micah Pettus emerging as a top target after his recent visit to Tallahassee.

🔑 Key Highlights from Pettus’ Recruitment:

• High Praise for FSU Staff: Pettus spoke highly of head coach Mike Norvell and offensive line coach Herb Hand, emphasizing the clear vision and passion they bring to the program.

• Strategic Timing: As one of the final visits before the December dead period, Pettus’ two-day trip showcased FSU’s focused approach to prioritizing key transfer portal talent.

• Strong Development Record: Pettus pointed to Hand’s proven track record of developing top-tier linemen as a major factor in his evaluation.

🌟 Why Pettus Could Be a Game-Changer:

• Proven Experience: The veteran lineman has consistently demonstrated his ability to anchor the offensive line at the Power 5 level, making him a valuable addition to FSU’s roster.

• FSU’s Momentum: With On3 national expert Pete Nakos logging a prediction for Pettus to commit to the Seminoles, FSU is well-positioned to secure another crucial piece for its offensive rebuild.

🗣️ Pettus on His FSU Visit:

“This was the first visit I took with my family, and FSU made it clear how much they wanted me here,” Pettus shared. “Coach Norvell’s passion and Coach Hand’s developmental expertise stood out to me.”

👉 Read more about Pettus and FSU’s efforts here.

🏆 FSU Commit Brady Smigiel Named High School Football Player of the Year 🏆

Florida State's quarterback pipeline just got some more hype as junior standout Brady Smigiel, fresh off an incredible season at Newbury Park High, was named The Times' Player of the Year for 2024. Despite battling through injuries during the playoffs, Smigiel delivered a historic campaign that solidifies his reputation as one of the nation's premier young talents.

💪 Smigiel’s Stellar 2024 Season:

• Statistical Dominance: Passed for 3,591 yards and 49 touchdowns while rushing for 435 yards and 11 scores, showing off his dual-threat ability.

• Clutch Performances: Reduced interceptions from 14 in 2023 to just three this season, leading Newbury Park to a 14-1 record and a Southern Section Division 2 title.

• Tough as Nails: Played through significant shoulder pain during the playoffs, even leading his team to a 27-14 lead in the state regional game after being sacked six times in the first half.

🎯 Why Smigiel Stands Out:

• Football IQ: Embraced his role as a distributor, saying, “I realized my job on the field was to get the ball to the athletes.”

• Consistency: Broke school records in passing yards and touchdowns every season, amassing career totals of 11,222 passing yards and 147 touchdowns with one season remaining.

• Leadership: Lifted teammates with his determination and grit, earning their admiration and rallying them through adversity.

🏈 The FSU Connection:

• Committed to Florida State, Smigiel’s playing style and resilience align perfectly with the Seminoles’ competitive ethos. Head coach Mike Norvell and his staff are poised to add a proven winner and natural leader to their quarterback room.

🔮 What’s Next?

With one year left in high school, Smigiel’s trajectory only points upward. As he prepares for his senior season, FSU fans can look forward to a quarterback who not only excels on the field but embodies the toughness and character that define championship-caliber players.

👉 Read more about Smigiel’s incredible season here.

🚪 FSU WR Malik Benson Enters Transfer Portal After One Season 🚪

Florida State wide receiver Malik Benson, a former top JUCO player, has entered the transfer portal after one season in Tallahassee. The news was confirmed by ESPN’s Pete Thamel.

📜 Benson’s Journey:

• JUCO Stardom: Benson was the No. 1 JUCO player in the country out of Hutchinson CC, leading to his initial commitment to Alabama.

• Transfer to FSU: After one season at Alabama, Benson transferred to FSU, where he started all 12 games in the 2024 season.

• NCAA Waiver: Initially planning to leave collegiate football after this season, Benson gained another year of eligibility due to a new NCAA waiver for players from non-NCAA schools.

🏈 2024 Contributions:

• Receiving Stats: 25 catches for 311 yards and one touchdown in his lone season with the Seminoles.

• All-Around Impact: Added contributions with two carries for two yards and one punt return for three yards.

• Career Totals: Over two seasons at Alabama and FSU, Benson recorded 38 receptions for 473 yards and two touchdowns.

👉 Read more about Benson’s decision and future here.

🌟 FSU in the Mix for 2026 TE Prospect Kaiden Prothro 🌟

Florida State remains in the hunt for 6-foot-6 tight end Kaiden Prothro, a standout from Bowdon (Ga.) with championship pedigree. Prothro, fresh off earning MVP honors during his team’s third straight state championship, is drawing interest from several top programs, including Georgia, Alabama, Auburn, Florida, Miami, Notre Dame, and FSU.

🔑 Key Factors in Prothro’s Recruitment:

• Versatile Skill Set: Prothro’s size and athleticism make him a unique prospect, with potential to play tight end, wide receiver, or even on defense at the next level.

• Georgia’s Influence: With a strong connection to Georgia’s tight ends coach Todd Hartley and head coach Kirby Smart, the Bulldogs are considered early favorites.

• Other Contenders: FSU and other top programs are vying to build relationships and showcase their development opportunities.

🏹 FSU’s Opportunity:

Though Georgia leads the pack, FSU remains in contention for the talented prospect. Prothro’s versatility and physical tools align with the Seminoles’ recent focus on adding dynamic playmakers to their roster.

Read more here

🔍 FSU Among Top Programs Targeting 2026 DB Ayden Pouncey 🔍

Florida State is one of several programs vying for Winter Park (Fla.) safety Ayden Pouncey, a dynamic 6-foot-2.5, 160-pound defensive back ranked as the No. 13 safety and No. 130 overall player in the 2026 class.

🏈 Pouncey’s Recruitment Highlights:

• Key Contenders: Alongside FSU, Miami, Georgia, Syracuse, Tennessee, and UCF are actively pursuing the standout safety.

• Miami Momentum: The Hurricanes have established one of Pouncey’s strongest relationships, with cornerbacks coach Chevis Jackson maintaining frequent communication. Miami’s opportunity for early playing time and their press-man coverage style resonate with Pouncey.

• Impressive Stats: Over the last two seasons, Pouncey has recorded six interceptions in 13 games, showcasing his ball-hawking abilities.

📅 Next Steps:

Pouncey plans to release a shortlist of schools in the coming months and take official visits in the summer, with a possible spring commitment if the right opportunity arises.

Why FSU Fits the Picture:

FSU’s tradition of developing defensive backs and its strong recruiting push positions the Seminoles as a contender in Pouncey’s recruitment. With a focus on landing versatile and skilled defenders, the Seminoles are poised to make their case as the recruitment unfolds.

Read more here

🛠️ FSU Builds Roster Through Transfer Portal: Who’s In, Who’s Next, and What’s Needed 🛠️

Florida State’s roster overhaul in the NCAA Transfer Portal is taking shape as they look to rebuild from a tough 2-10 season. The Seminoles have already landed several key additions, particularly on offense, while positioning themselves for more impactful signings. Here's a breakdown of their portal activity so far, potential targets, and remaining needs heading into a pivotal 2025 season.

🔑 Who Have They Added?

• 🏈 QB Thomas Castellanos (Boston College):
  A dynamic fit for Gus Malzahn’s system, Castellanos provides FSU with a quarterback to build their offense around, especially as they aim to attract more skill players through the portal.

• 📡 WR Duce Robinson (USC):
  The jewel of FSU’s portal haul, Robinson brings elite size (6’6”, 220 lbs.) and versatility. A legacy prospect, Robinson is expected to make an immediate impact as a starter.

• 🔒 TE Markeston Douglas (Arizona State):
  Douglas, a former Seminole, returns to bolster FSU’s blocking game at tight end, filling a crucial role in Malzahn’s run-heavy offense.

• 🚀 TE Randy Pittman (UCF):
  Reunited with Malzahn, Pittman’s versatility and dynamic playstyle add another layer of creativity to the Seminoles’ offensive schemes.

• 🛡️ OL Adrian Medley (UCF):
  Likely the favorite to start at left guard, Medley’s addition shores up a critical area of need on FSU’s offensive line.

• 🔧 OL Gunnar Hansen (Vanderbilt):
  A seasoned three-year starter, Hansen is set to compete for a starting tackle position, addressing FSU’s glaring need for depth and experience on the line.

• 💥 DE James Williams (Nebraska):
  With familiarity in DC Tony White’s system, Williams brings much-needed pass-rushing ability to an overhauled defensive front.

• ⚡ DE Deante McCray (Western Kentucky):
  A versatile edge rusher, McCray offers power and agility, likely slotting in as a starter for 2025.

• 📚 LB Stefon Thompson (Nebraska):
  A veteran linebacker with experience under White, Thompson is expected to provide leadership and stability to FSU’s defense.

🔍 Who Could They Still Add?

• 🚀 WR Traylon Ray (West Virginia):
  The Tallahassee native visited FSU just before the portal window closed. While his production intrigues the staff, his recent leg injury could factor into the decision.

• 🛡️ OL Micah Pettus (Ole Miss):
  A massive tackle with SEC experience, Pettus looks like a strong possibility for FSU after a promising visit and a prediction favoring the Seminoles.

• 🔨 OL Rahtrel Perry (Central Connecticut State):
  Perry impressed during his visit, but with competition from Ohio State, Maryland, and others, FSU’s chances remain uncertain.

• ⚙️ OL Ethan Onianwa (Rice):
  A starting left tackle at Rice, Onianwa’s visit capped off his recruitment, but Ohio State appears to be the frontrunner for his services.

🔮 What They Still Need

• 📡 Wide Receiver:
  With Robinson secured, FSU still needs one or two more wideouts, prioritizing speed and production to complement their newfound size at the position.

• 🔧 Offensive Line:
  FSU’s biggest need remains on the offensive line. Adding 2–3 more players, including at least one additional tackle, is crucial to stabilizing the unit.

• 💥 Defensive Line:
  While the addition of McCray and Williams strengthens the edge, one more defensive end or tackle would provide depth and flexibility.

• 📚 Linebacker:
  Replacing reserve linebacker Shawn Murphy opens up a spot for a veteran addition, likely addressed in the January visit window.

• 🔒 Defensive Back:
  FSU’s young secondary could benefit from an experienced addition, particularly at safety or cornerback, to guide a promising group of returners.

Read more here

And that’s a wrap!

As Florida State reshapes its roster and eyes top talent across the board, the pieces are falling into place for a turnaround in 2025.

Whether it's locking in future stars, navigating the transfer portal, or charting a bold new course under Coach Norvell, the journey is only just beginning. Stay tuned for more updates as we cover every step of the climb back to greatness!

Until tomorrow, Feliz Navidad, Seminoles! 🏹