Florida State has done it again. In a significant recruiting win that reverberated throughout the college football world, the Seminoles have officially landed four-star wide receiver Brandon Bennett, a prized prospect in the 2025 class. The explosive pass catcher chose Florida State over in-state rival Florida and perennial SEC powerhouse Georgia, giving the Seminoles yet another elite weapon for the future.
Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 190 pounds, Bennett is widely considered one of the most electric wideouts in the country. Hailing from Carrollwood Day School in Tampa, Florida, he brings a unique blend of speed, size, agility, and route-running polish that has made him one of the most sought-after receivers in this cycle. His recruitment had been a hotly contested battle, with the Gators and Bulldogs making aggressive late pushes, but in the end, Mike Norvell and his staff sealed the deal.
This commitment is a massive statement for Florida State. Not only does it reflect the program’s momentum on the recruiting trail, but it also confirms the Seminoles’ ability to fend off blue-blood competition for top-tier talent. For a program looking to reestablish itself among the nation’s elite, securing a player of Bennett’s caliber is the kind of move that fuels playoff aspirations. His decision underscores the belief that elite recruits have in what Norvell is building in Tallahassee—and it speaks volumes about Florida State’s current trajectory.
Bennett’s game is defined by explosion and versatility. He has the speed to take the top off of defenses, the footwork to create separation on short and intermediate routes, and the toughness to make contested catches across the middle. He’s a three-level threat who can be lined up anywhere on the field, and he’s shown flashes of dominance in every setting—from high school Friday nights to 7-on-7 showcases and national camps. His highlight reel is filled with jaw-dropping plays: one-handed grabs, acrobatic sideline catches, and game-breaking touchdowns that demonstrate why he’s a consensus top-100 prospect.
For Florida State, adding a player like Bennett to its future offense is invaluable. With rising quarterback talent in the pipeline and a system designed to maximize wide receiver production, the Seminoles are positioning themselves for sustained offensive excellence. Bennett could be the next great FSU wideout in a lineage that includes names like Peter Warrick, Rashad Greene, Kelvin Benjamin, and more recently, Keon Coleman. The opportunity to play early and make an impact undoubtedly played a role in his commitment, especially given Florida State’s tendency to feature its playmakers prominently.
The recruitment of Bennett has been one of the more closely followed storylines in Florida over the past year. The Gators, led by Billy Napier, made a strong impression early in the process. Gainesville’s proximity to Tampa, coupled with Florida’s rich tradition of producing NFL-caliber receivers, made them a natural contender. Georgia, meanwhile, had emerged as a late favorite, especially after Bennett’s spring visit to Athens. Kirby Smart’s staff rolled out the red carpet, selling the winning culture and the NFL development pipeline that the Bulldogs have become known for.
But Florida State never flinched. Wide receivers coach Ron Dugans deserves considerable credit for developing a strong and trusting relationship with Bennett and his family. Dugans’ approach—relentless communication, honest evaluations, and a clear developmental plan—resonated deeply. So did Florida State’s 2024 success and high-flying offense, which showcased how dynamic a receiver can be in Norvell’s system.
Throughout his recruitment, Bennett was methodical. He took his time, evaluated each program’s culture, coaching staff, scheme fit, and depth chart. He made visits, attended games, and sat in on meetings. In the end, Florida State checked all the boxes. The chance to stay in-state while playing in a pro-style offense that highlights his strengths proved too good to pass up.
Bennett’s commitment sends a ripple effect across the recruiting landscape. It gives Florida State another blue-chip playmaker in what’s shaping up to be a top-10 national recruiting class. His presence will likely attract other elite offensive talent—quarterbacks, fellow receivers, and offensive linemen—who want to play alongside someone of his caliber. Momentum breeds momentum, and Bennett’s decision may be the catalyst for even more good news in Tallahassee in the coming weeks.
For Florida, this loss stings. The Gators had prioritized Bennett as a key in-state target and had been confident heading into the final stretch. Missing on a homegrown talent of this magnitude is always tough—especially when he commits to a rival. The pressure on Napier’s staff to close on other top-tier receivers just intensified. Georgia, on the other hand, likely won’t miss a beat given their national recruiting reach, but Bennett’s decision does remind everyone that Florida State is very much back in the mix when it comes to landing elite players from SEC battlegrounds.
For Bennett, the decision brings clarity and excitement. He now enters his senior season with his recruitment in the rearview mirror, allowing him to focus fully on continuing to develop and lead his high school team. He’ll be a feature player in national All-American showcases, and his name will be one to track as fall approaches. His commitment also energizes the Florida State fanbase, which has been hungry for a return to the national spotlight.
Bennett’s story is just beginning. He’s still a high school senior, still adding polish to his game, and still evolving as a young man. But the foundation is there—physically, mentally, and emotionally. He has all the tools to become a star in the ACC and a future NFL prospect. His work ethic, football IQ, and humility set him apart as more than just a talented athlete. He’s a leader, a competitor, and now, a Seminole.
As Florida State continues to rise under Norvell, this commitment feels symbolic. It’s not just about one receiver—it’s about what the program is becoming. Bennett represents the next wave of talent that believes in FSU’s vision. He’s the kind of player who can change games, swing momentum, and energize a locker room. And now he’s headed to Doak Campbell Stadium, ready to write his own chapter in Seminole history.
Looking forward, Florida State fans have every reason to be excited. The future is bright, the roster is deepening with elite talent, and the trajectory of the program is unmistakably upward. Brandon Bennett’s commitment is more than just a recruiting win—it’s a declaration. The Seminoles aren’t just competing for top players. They’re winning battles. They’re building something special. And Bennett just might be the face of what’s next.
