Five-Star QB Keisean Henderson Cancels FSU Visit, Commits to Houston

Miami Gardens, USA - In a surprising turn of events, Florida State University (FSU) is back to square one in its quest for a quarterback for the 2026 recruiting class. After parting ways with four-star quarterback Brady Smigiel in January, the Seminoles were keenly focused on five-star prospect Keisean Henderson, alongside four-star athletes Landon Duckworth and Jaden O’Neal. However, Henderson has canceled his planned official visit to FSU, which was initially set for June 6-8, and instead, he has committed to the Houston Cougars.

The abrupt change of heart comes as a blow to the Noles, who now find themselves eliminated from contention for four-star recruit Bowe Bentley as well. While Landon Duckworth is trending toward South Carolina and O’Neal appears steadfast in his commitment to Oklahoma, the winds of recruitment continue to shift. Should Bentley choose Oklahoma, FSU’s chances of flipping O’Neal might get a flicker of hope.

Stats That Speak Volumes

Henderson has certainly made a name for himself. During his junior year, he completed 175 of 263 passes for an impressive 2,689 yards and 25 touchdowns, along with rushing for 341 yards and seven touchdowns. His standout performance at the Navy All-American Bowl, where he was named MVP, saw him complete 3 of 5 passes for 148 yards—including a spectacular 91-yard touchdown. Ranked as the No. 3 overall prospect, the No. 2 quarterback, and the top recruit in Texas for the 2026 class by 247Sports, there’s little doubt about his caliber as a player.

• Current commitments to FSU’s 2026 class include:
• Four-Star WR Efrem White
• Four-Star WR Darryon Williams
• Four-Star DB Darryl Bell III
• Four-Star RB Amari Thomas
• Four-Star DB Tedarius Hughes
• Three-Star DB Sean Johnson
• Three-Star LB Karon Maycock
• Three-Star OL Michael Ionata
• Three-Star OL Xavier Payne

With nine verbal commitments already lining up for the Seminoles, their national ranking sits uncomfortably at No. 26, especially given their need for a quarterback. Current roster includes senior Tommy Castellanos, junior Jaylen King, redshirt sophomores Brock Glenn and Michael Grant, as well as freshmen Kevin Sperry and Gavin Markey.

What Lies Ahead?

As FSU coaches shift their focus, the loss of Henderson is particularly disappointing due to his connection with new offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn’s scheme. The potential for flipping such a talented prospect is often fraught with challenges. 247Sports‘ national recruiting analyst Mike Roach reiterates that luring Henderson away from Houston won’t be an easy task.

Andrew Ivins, the 247Sports director of scouting, emphasized the significant impact Henderson’s recruitment could have on Coach Mike Norvell’s program, even comparing it to the essential nature of Travis Hunter’s visit during the past recruiting cycle. With June now in full swing and recruitment heating up, it will be interesting to see how FH’s recruitment strategies evolve in response to this setback.

Florida State fans will undoubtedly be watching closely as other prospects emerge in a race for the coveted quarterback spot in the upcoming class.