FSU Pushes Hard for Five-Star WR Calvin Russell Despite Syracuse Commitment

FSU Pushes Hard for Five-Star WR Calvin Russell Despite Syracuse Commitment

In the ever-evolving landscape of college football recruiting, the Florida State Seminoles are making waves with their interest in elite wide receiver Calvin Russell. Although Russell committed to Syracuse Orange back in July, this hasn’t deterred FSU from pursuing the standout athlete. The Seminoles are reportedly in contact with Russell in hopes of changing his mind and flipping his commitment, despite his current commitment to the Orange and attention from Michigan Wolverines as well.FSU Wire reports that Russell is not just any wide receiver; he is the No. 28 overall player and the No. 4 wide receiver according to Rivals’ industry rankings. Furthermore, he has made quite an impact on the field, helping Miami Northwestern achieve a remarkable 12-2 record and win the Florida 3A State Championship last season.

With 39 receptions for 704 yards and 13 touchdowns under his belt, it’s easy to see why Russell is considered one of the most talented recruits in the country. His stature also stands out—measuring in at 6’5″ and weighing 200 pounds, he brings both size and skill to the game, making him a coveted player. As FSU continues its recruitment efforts, they already boast a robust class with five four-star wideouts committed, including Devin Carter and Brandon Bennett, signaling the Seminoles‘ strong foundation for the futureSports Illustrated.

Pursuing Excellence

While Russell’s commitment to Syracuse is significant—marking the highest-ranked recruit for the program in over two decades—it also intensifies the competition for his signature. The 2026 athlete had previously narrowed his recruitment, eliminating the Miami Hurricanes from consideration, but the impact he could have on a program remains evident. As his recruitment unfolds, it’s clear that Florida State is keen to continue a relationship built over years of engagement. Hosting Russell on multiple visits this year, they’ve shown a palpable interest in his talents.

Additionally, Russell shines not only on the football field but also on the basketball court. Averaging 15.2 points and 8.0 rebounds per game, his athleticism and skills translate across sports, further enhancing his profile as a multi-talented athlete. The combination of his football and basketball achievements solidifies his standing as a prospect to watch in the coming years247 Sports.

A Broader Outlook

Looking ahead, Russell’s recruitment is set against a backdrop of an exciting high school football season, including the upcoming 2025 ESPN High School Kickoff. Teams like Plantation American Heritage and Bradenton IMG Academy will battle it out in notable matchups that exhibit the depth of talent across Florida. The prominence of five-star recruits like Dia Bell and Keenyi Pepe at these events continues to raise the stakes for aspiring athletes like Russell, who are navigating their futures in a competitive arena.

As Florida State aims to solidify its 21 verbal commitments and climb the national rankings—currently at No. 13—Russell’s decision will be pivotal. With the Seminoles actively building a prime recruiting class, one can’t help but wonder: Will they be able to land one of the jewel prospects in Calvin Russell? Only time will tell, but the commitment of top-tier programs, including FSU, Michigan, and Oregon, makes for a nail-biting race to the finish.