The Florida State Seminoles’ 2026 recruiting class just received a boost, as head coach Mike Norvell and his staff successfully flipped two high-priority in-state prospects: running back Amari Thomas and defensive back Jordan Crutchfield. The pair of flips from rival SEC programs signal some much-needed momentum on the trail for FSU heading into the Early Signing Period despite their struggles throughout the season.
In a dramatic twist, four-star running back Amari Thomas announced his decision to flip his commitment back to Florida State, after a brief pledge to the South Carolina Gamecocks. The talented four-star back from Blountstown, Florida, is regarded as a top-25 running back nationally according to the 247 Composite.
Thomas had originally been an FSU commit, but a change of heart over the summer saw him briefly commit to South Carolina in August. However, persistent recruitment from the Seminoles led by Running Backs Coach David Johnson ultimately brought the prolific runner back to Tallahassee. Not to mention, South Carolina is having a disastrous season, and there is uncertainty around the future of head coach Shane Beamer.
As a senior, the 5-foot-10, 187-pound back has been an absolute force, rushing for nearly 1,500 yards (16.8 YPC) and totaling 19 touchdowns. Thomas is the lone running back commitment in FSU’s 2026 class and is expected to be a foundational piece in the future of the Seminoles’ backfield.
The Seminoles’ defensive backfield also received a key addition with the successful flip of three-star safety Jordan Crutchfield from the Kentucky Wildcats. The Vero Beach, Florida native’s decision to join the Noles follows an influential official visit to Tallahassee this past weekend.
Crutchfield, who stands at 6-foot-3 and 200 pounds, brings elite length and versatility that defensive coordinator Tony White prizes in his secondary. His reported 6-foot-7 wingspan makes him a disruptive force in coverage. Crutchfield is considered a high three-star with an 89 grade per the 247 Composite and ranks as the 39th overall Safety in the 2026 class.
Committed to Kentucky since June, Crutchfield’s strong senior season saw FSU ramp up its pursuit. The coaching staff views him as a versatile player capable of operating at multiple positions in the defensive backfield—from safety to an overhang defender—thanks to his size and ability to trigger downhill. He joins a robust defensive back haul for the Seminoles, which includes other top talents like five-star cornerback Chauncey Kennon.
These flips represent a pair of nice victories for a Florida State staff that needs anything and everything positive right now. The double flip helps strengthen the 2026 class that ranks 14th overall and second in the ACC. Thanks for reading and Go Noles!
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