Yesterday’s Poll Results

Today’s Poll

🏹 Welcome to The Chief Brief! 🏹

Happy Saturday, Seminole!

Here’s your docket for the final weekend of 2024:

⚾ FSU Baseball Welcomes Kaden Waechter
Florida State’s baseball program secures a top-ranked pitching prospect from Jesuit Tampa High School, adding depth and legacy to the 2026 recruiting class.

💨 Mountain West Star Rahsul Faison Heads to Tallahassee
The Utah State running back brings over 1,100 rushing yards and eight touchdowns to the transfer market, with FSU set to make its case on New Year’s Day.

🛡️ Oregon’s Jaeden Moore Draws FSU’s Interest
The Seminoles join the hunt for the talented edge rusher, who retains three years of eligibility and could bring explosiveness to the defensive line.

🛡️ Memphis Linebacker Elijah Herring Eyes FSU
With 60 tackles and standout run defense grades in 2024, Herring’s January 1 visit highlights FSU’s defensive reload efforts.

🏈 Building for the Future with Logan Flaherty
FSU hosted the 2027 QB prospect for an exclusive visit, strengthening early ties with the promising signal-caller.

🛡️ Transfer Portal Target: Jayson Jenkins
The third-best uncommitted EDGE in the portal will visit FSU in early January, as the Seminoles look to add his physicality and quickness to their defensive front.

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⚾ FSU Baseball Lands Elite Pitcher Kaden Waechter ⚾

Florida State baseball continues its tradition of Jesuit Tampa High School standouts, securing a commitment from Kaden Waechter, a top-tier right-handed pitcher in the Class of 2026. Waechter’s addition bolsters an already impressive recruiting class and cements FSU’s pipeline to one of Florida’s most storied high school programs.

🌟 Waechter’s Impressive Resume:

• Elite Ranking: Perfect Game ranks Waechter as the No. 66 overall player in the class and the No. 2 right-handed pitcher in Florida.

• Versatile Talent: At 6-foot-3 and 180 pounds, Waechter is a dynamic two-way player, excelling on the mound and at shortstop.

• Dominant on the Mound: Posted a 0.94 ERA with 24 strikeouts in 22.1 innings as a sophomore, helping Jesuit claim the 5A FHSAA State Championship.

🧢 FSU’s Jesuit Tampa Connection:

Waechter joins a legacy of Seminoles from Jesuit Tampa High School, including current roster members Jamie Arnold, John Abraham, and Wes Mendes. Jesuit alumni have consistently contributed to FSU’s success, with at least one Tiger on the roster every year since 2016 (except 2022).

🔥 Why Waechter Stands Out:

• Elite Stuff: Waechter mixes a low-90s fastball with a sharp low-80s slider and a deceptive changeup, showcasing a projectable arm with athleticism.

• High-Caliber Recruitment: Chose FSU over programs like Florida, Clemson, and Mississippi State, reinforcing the Seminoles’ recruiting strength under Link Jarrett, Ty Megahee, and Micah Posey.

👨‍👦 Baseball Runs in the Family:

Waechter’s father, Doug Waechter, pitched six seasons in the MLB, spending four years with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. His professional pedigree adds to Kaden’s promising potential.

📋 FSU’s 2026 Class:

• Waechter is the 11th commit in FSU’s 2026 class and the highest-ranked pitching recruit under the current staff.

• He joins INF Yodelkis Quevedo as one of the top-ranked players in this loaded class.

👉 Read more about Kaden Waechter’s commitment and the future of FSU baseball here.

💨 FSU to Host Mountain West Star RB Rahsul Faison 💨

Florida State is set to host Utah State running back Rahsul Faison on January 1st, as the Seminoles position themselves to secure a proven playmaker for their backfield. Faison, fresh off a standout 2024 season, has emerged as a highly sought-after transfer with visits also scheduled to Georgia, Utah, and North Carolina.

🌟 Faison’s 2024 Season Highlights:

• Rushing Dominance: 1,109 rushing yards and 8 touchdowns.

• Versatility: Added 22 receptions for 99 yards, showcasing his ability as a dual-threat back.

• Recognition: Named to the Mountain West All-Conference Second Team.

• Extended Eligibility: Faison benefits from the NCAA's recent eligibility waiver for JUCO transfers, giving him one more season to compete.

🔑 Why FSU is an Ideal Fit:

• Key Role Available: With leading rusher Lawrance Toafili departing, Faison has the opportunity to make an immediate impact in the Seminoles’ backfield.

• High-Caliber Competition: FSU is battling top programs like Georgia, North Carolina, and Utah for Faison’s commitment.

• FSU’s Offensive Vision: Under head coach Mike Norvell and new offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn, Faison could thrive in a system that emphasizes versatility and playmaking ability.

🏈 Recruitment Outlook:

• Faison’s visit to Tallahassee on New Year’s Day marks the beginning of a crucial week of visits.

• Other top destinations include Georgia (Jan. 3), Utah (Jan. 5), and North Carolina (Jan. 6).

If FSU can secure Faison, it would solidify a backfield ready to compete at the highest level in 2025, adding depth and experience to an offense looking to rebound.

👉 Read more about Faison’s recruitment and his potential impact at FSU here.

🛡️ FSU Enters the Race for Oregon Edge Jaeden Moore 🛡️

Florida State is among the programs reaching out to Oregon edge defender Jaeden Moore, who entered the NCAA Transfer Portal a week ago. Moore, a 2023 graduate with three years of eligibility remaining, is seeking his next opportunity after a season as a reserve for the Ducks.

🔑 Moore’s 2024 Highlights:

• Impact in Limited Action: Played behind an All-Big Ten-level defensive line rotation, including Matayo Uiagalelei and Jordan Burch.

• Notable Production: Logged 16 pressures and one sack while gaining valuable experience.

• Eligibility: Retains three seasons to play at his next destination.

🌟 FSU’s Interest:

• Immediate Contact: FSU quickly reached out to Moore upon his portal entry, joining ACC competitors like Virginia Tech and Cal in expressing interest.

• Strategic Fit: The Seminoles are bolstering their defensive line during this portal cycle, adding depth and versatility to the edge rusher position.

• Development Opportunity: With FSU's new defensive coordinator Tony White and defensive line coach Terrance Knighton, Moore could flourish in an evolving system.

🏈 Recruitment Outlook:

• Other Contenders: Moore has also heard from SEC programs and Western Big Ten schools.

• Key Consideration: The former four-star recruit will evaluate schools based on development opportunities and defensive schemes that suit his strengths.

If FSU can secure Moore, his upside and remaining eligibility could make him a valuable addition to the Seminoles' defensive front as they continue to enhance their roster for 2025.

👉 Read more about Moore’s potential fit at FSU here.

🛡️ Memphis LB Transfer Elijah Herring Set to Visit FSU 🛡️

Florida State’s defensive overhaul for the 2025 season is gaining momentum, with Memphis linebacker transfer Elijah Herring scheduled for a visit on January 1. The 6-foot-2, 230-pound linebacker is coming off a productive season and could fill a critical role for the Seminoles.

🔑 Herring’s 2024 Highlights:

• Impressive Stats: Recorded 60 tackles, 16 pressures, 7.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery in his lone season at Memphis.

• Elite Run Defense: Pro Football Focus awarded him an 87.3 run defense grade, underscoring his effectiveness against the ground game.

• Versatile Defender: Showed an ability to disrupt offenses with pressures and impactful plays across the field.

🌟 Why FSU is a Fit:

• Veteran Presence: Herring’s one year of eligibility aligns with FSU’s need for immediate contributions from experienced players.

• Defensive Depth: As the Seminoles work to solidify their linebacker corps, Herring’s proven ability to impact both the run and pass could address a critical need.

• Coaching Influence: FSU’s revamped defensive staff, led by Tony White, has emphasized adding versatile, high-impact players like Herring.

🏈 Recruitment Outlook:

• Visit Schedule: After his FSU visit on January 1, Herring is slated to visit California on January 4.

• SEC Roots: Originally from Newnan, Georgia, Herring began his collegiate career at Tennessee before transferring to Memphis in 2024.

• Decision Timeline: With limited eligibility remaining, Herring’s decision will likely focus on the program that offers the best opportunity for immediate impact and development.

If FSU lands Herring, his combination of experience and productivity could provide a much-needed boost to the Seminoles' defense in a pivotal season.

👉 Read more about Herring’s recruitment here.

🏈 FSU Strengthens Ties with 2027 QB Prospect Logan Flaherty 🏈

Florida State welcomed Port Charlotte quarterback Logan Flaherty for an extended recruiting visit just before Christmas, giving the 2027 prospect his most in-depth experience with the Seminoles program to date. Flaherty, who holds three offers including FSU, Louisville, and Tulane, spent the day connecting with the coaching staff, including quarterbacks coach Tony Tokarz, offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn, and head coach Mike Norvell.

🔑 Highlights of Flaherty’s Visit:

• One-on-One Time: Flaherty had exclusive access to QB coach Tony Tokarz, deepening their bond and showcasing FSU’s commitment to his development.

• First Impressions of Gus Malzahn: Although Flaherty had previously attended a camp at UCF during Malzahn’s tenure, this visit marked their first in-depth interaction. Flaherty praised Malzahn’s offensive expertise and vision for FSU’s future.

• Meeting Mike Norvell: The visit allowed Flaherty to understand Norvell’s straightforward coaching philosophy and high-energy approach.

🌟 Why FSU is Interested:

• Playmaking Ability: Tokarz has consistently highlighted Flaherty’s skill in extending plays, making off-platform throws, and excelling in improvisation—qualities deemed “uncachable” but highly valuable.

• Building a Long-Term Connection: As a 2027 prospect, FSU is aiming to establish a strong foundation with Flaherty early in his recruitment journey.

📋 What’s Next:

• January Check-In: Tokarz plans to visit Port Charlotte in January to continue evaluating Flaherty.

• Spring Practice Visit: Flaherty and his family intend to return to Tallahassee in the spring, further solidifying their relationship with the program.

If the Seminoles maintain their focus on Flaherty, they could position themselves as a key contender for the promising 2027 signal-caller as his recruitment unfolds.

👉 Read more about Flaherty’s recruitment here.

🛡️ FSU in the Hunt for Top Transfer DL Jayson Jenkins 🛡️

Tennessee defensive lineman Jayson Jenkins has quickly become a coveted prospect in the NCAA Transfer Portal. The 6-foot-6, 280-pound defender, ranked as the third-best uncommitted EDGE in the portal, has lined up several key visits, including a stop in Tallahassee with the Seminoles in early January.

🔑 Jenkins’ Transfer Highlights:

• Productive 2024 Season: Recorded 9 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, 1 forced fumble, and 1 safety at Tennessee.

• Power 5 Appeal: Jenkins has attracted attention from top programs like Texas Tech, UNC, NC State, SMU, and Indiana, in addition to Florida State.

• Skill Set: Known for his physicality and quickness, traits that fit well within FSU’s defensive scheme.

🌟 FSU’s Edge:

• January Visit Scheduled: Jenkins will visit Florida State on his early January tour, providing the Seminoles a critical opportunity to make a strong impression.

• Defensive Line Rebuild: With recent portal additions like Deante McCray (Western Kentucky) and James Williams (Nebraska), Jenkins would add size, versatility, and proven Power 5 experience to an improving defensive front.

🔮 What’s Next?

Jenkins plans to decide shortly after completing his visits and consulting with his agency and family. With FSU in the mix, his decision could be a pivotal addition for the Seminoles’ 2025 defensive unit.

👉 Read more about Jenkins’ recruitment here.

And that’s a wrap!

Whether it’s the diamond, the gridiron, or the recruiting trail, Florida State is making bold moves to set up an exciting 2025 and beyond. Keep your eyes on the portal, the pitch, and the field—FSU’s future is bright, and the journey is just beginning.

Until next time, stay sharp and go Seminoles! 🌴🐾