Florida State’s 2026 recruiting class continues to gain significant momentum, with the latest major addition coming from four-star tight end Xavier Tiller. The talented prospect from Fairburn, Georgia, announced his commitment to the
Seminoles on Monday, choosing FSU over a host of other top programs, including SEC contenders Auburn and Alabama.
Tiller’s commitment caps off a stellar weekend for Mike Norvell’s staff, which also saw the Seminoles land four-star quarterback Jaden O’Neal and offensive lineman Luke Francis and flip four-star wide receiver Devin Carter from Auburn. This surge of high-profile pledges has propelled Florida State’s 2026 class into the top 10 of the 247 Composite rankings.
The 6-foot-5, 215-pound tight end from Langston Hughes High School cited his strong connection with the coaching staff, particularly new offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn and tight ends coach Chris Thomsen, as a primary factor in his decision. Tiller was particularly impressed with their vision for how he would be utilized in the Seminole offense.
“I love Coach Malzahn, what he does,” Tiller told reporters after his decision. “I feel that’s a great fit for me.” He added that the coaches showed him “ways they can use me, flex me out, block, all that,” suggesting a versatile role in the FSU offense. He also spoke about being able to get on the field as a freshman and being developed by FSU’s tight ends coach, Chris Thomsen.
This speaks directly to the impact we saw highly touted freshmen Laden Thomas and Amaree Williams make last season. Gus Malzahn’s former tight end at UCF, who now wears garnet and gold, Randy Pittman Jr., is a great example of flexibility at the tight end position.
Tiller’s commitment comes after an official visit to Tallahassee last week that seemingly sealed the deal. He had previously been committed to Texas A&M before reopening his recruitment in February, attracting interest from across the college football landscape with 35 offers, including most of the big-name programs around the country.
Ranked as the No. 11 tight end nationally and a top 25 prospect in Georgia by the 247 Composite Ranking, Tiller brings a high-end physical skill set to Tallahassee. Scouts praise his elite length, massive hands, and impressive contact balance, which give him significant upside. As a junior, he hauled in 25 catches for 344 yards and three touchdowns, building on a strong sophomore campaign where he recorded 25 receptions for 352 yards and seven scores. Tiller proves himself against good competition playing in Georgia’s 7-A classification.
Tiller was widely considered a top priority for FSU at the position, and his pledge signifies a major win on the recruiting trail. Credit to Chris Thomsen, who continues to bring in talent at the position. As Florida State continues to build out its 2026 class, the momentum is undeniable in Tallahassee. The Seminoles now have 19 commitments in the 2026 class, with 11 being blue-chip players. If they can hold this together, it could be a huge class for FSU and maybe even that elusive top 10 class they’ve been chasing since Norvell’s arrival. Thanks for reading and Go Noles!
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