Staff
Florida State’s 2024 recruiting class was one of the strongest in the country, ranking No. 11 for high school recruits and No. 12 overall when including transfers. This influx of talent brought promising new players to Tallahassee, offering hope for the team’s future.
However, many newcomers haven’t seen enough in-game action to fully adjust to college football. With the last three games of the season remaining, providing these freshmen with playtime could help them gain critical experience.
Here are five freshmen who should see more time on the field as FSU looks to shape its future.
Quarterback Luke Kromenhoek
Kromenhoek joined Florida State University (FSU) as a highly anticipated recruit and has already shown flashes of potential in his limited appearances this season. He’s a top quarterback from Benedictine Military High School who’s known for his poise and playmaking ability, but there’s a decision to make regarding his redshirt status.
His recent performances have shown both promise and areas for improvement. For example, his game against Miami featured impressive runs and moments of leadership on the field, even if he faced challenges with interceptions in the University of North Carolina (UNC) game. More playtime could enhance his development and strengthen FSU’s offensive consistency.
While the offensive line has struggled, exposing Kromenhoek to in-game action offers learning experiences essential for his growth. Game reps could prepare him to take on the starting role and bolster his confidence, especially if the Florida State Seminoles Odds depend on emerging talents like him.
Wide Receiver Elijah Moore
Moore has emerged as one of the more reliable hands in this freshman class, alongside BJ Gibson and Lawayne McCoy. He’s the No. 6 recruit out of Maryland who arrived at FSU with high expectations. Despite limited targets this season, he’s shown consistent performance in practice. Adding him into the lineup could give the team a much-needed offense spark.
At 6’4″ and 204 pounds, Moore brings an imposing presence on the field, making him an ideal candidate as an outside receiver. FSU has struggled to find dependable players to keep opposing defences honest. With more opportunities, Moore could bring fresh energy to the offence and help relieve pressure on FSU’s upperclassmen, who haven’t been able to deliver consistently.
Moore’s main challenge is adjusting to the speed and intensity of college football. Although he may need time to adapt, regular in-game experience can accelerate his development. As he gets used to the playbook and builds confidence, he could emerge as a key player for the Seminoles.
Defensive Back Charles Lester III
Lester is one of the top recruits in FSU’s 2024 class. He came in as the No. 3 cornerback and has made steady progress through practice. He’s also known for his ball-handling skills and instincts and has already stood out against some of FSU’s best offensive players in practice. His limited playtime, however, means he hasn’t yet adjusted fully to the speed of in-game action.
Lester has a lot of potential to strengthen FSU’s defence, particularly in pass coverage. He’s shown solid instincts, which, combined with his ability to read plays, make him a promising defensive talent. Getting him more reps could also allow him to refine his skills in different game scenarios, preparing him for a more significant role in the next season.
His biggest hurdle so far has been learning the playbook and adapting to college-level plays. But with a few more games of experience, Lester can build confidence and gain the situational awareness needed to become a reliable starter.
Wide Receiver BJ Gibson
Gibson, ranked as the No. 22 athlete nationally, offers exciting potential as a playmaker. His athleticism and ability to make plays in practice have impressed both coaches and teammates. Yet, like many freshmen, he’s still adapting to the complex college playbook, limiting his game appearances. In these last games, increasing his playtime could help him settle into FSU’s offence and develop a rhythm.
As a versatile athlete, Gibson could add depth and flexibility to FSU’s offence. His ability to challenge defensive backs could be instrumental, especially if FSU wants to strengthen its receiving corps for the future. With his speed and agility, he could open up options for FSU’s passing game, adding a dynamic that’s been missing this season.
Physically, Gibson has room for growth, and more time in the Seminole strength and conditioning program will help. At 6’0″ and 190 pounds, he’s close to the ideal size for an FSU receiver, and playtime now could give him the experience and confidence to develop further.
Running Back Micahi Danzy
Danzy is a local 4-star recruit from Tallahassee known for his elite track speed, which could make him a game-changer for FSU if used strategically. Unfortunately, he has dealt with minor injuries, limiting his playtime early in the season. On a positive note, with FSU’s depleted running back room, he could be an asset if given the chance to showcase his abilities.
He could be a valuable tool in specific offensive plays with his speed and agility. While his smaller frame might not suit heavy-duty running plays, he could thrive in space, particularly in pass plays to the flats. His open-field agility and quick acceleration make him a potential playmaker for the Seminoles.
As Danzy continues to develop his strength and durability, gaining in-game experience will be crucial. His size may present challenges, but targeted playtime can help him adjust to the college game and become a valuable asset for FSU in future seasons.
Final Thoughts
In the final games of a difficult season, giving these talented freshmen more time on the field could be essential for FSU’s long-term success. Not only does it prepare them for larger roles, but it also allows them to gain invaluable experience. This exposure will build a strong foundation, setting up the Seminoles for a brighter future.
Photo: @3lijahmoore/IG