SIGNIFICANT UPDATE: Ohio State showing massive interest in elite Florida State QB commitment
The Seminoles are going to have to battle to hold onto their top commitment in #Tribe26.
Florida State secured a commitment from four-star quarterback Brady Smigiel last summer. Despite the challenging 2-10 season in Tallahassee, the highly regarded prospect remained committed to the Seminoles. However, the program has undergone several changes in the coaching staff, including the appointment of new offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn.
Malzahn will assume primary play-calling responsibilities from head coach Mike Norvell. While they employ a similar offensive system, potential adjustments could make Smigiel reconsider his commitment. This is a significant reason why Norvell and Malzahn traveled to California earlier this month to meet with the prominent quarterback.
It’s becoming evident that the Seminoles will face a tough battle to retain their highest-ranked recruit in #Tribe26. Smigiel has garnered considerable attention in recent weeks as coaches likely emphasize the shifting dynamics and uncertain future at Florida State.
On Saturday, Ohio State’s offensive coordinator Chip Kelly traveled to the West Coast to meet with Smigiel. The Buckeyes, who recently claimed the national championship, have been interested in Smigiel for a while and extended an offer shortly after Kelly’s hiring last February.
Kelly isn’t the only coach keeping tabs on Smigiel; Washington, UCLA, and South Carolina have all made visits this month as well. Smigiel also took an unofficial visit to the Huskies earlier this month, marking his first trip to another program since his verbal commitment to Florida State.
Smigiel was recently recognized as the high school football player of the year by the Los Angeles Times following a junior season in which he led Newbury Park High School to a 14-1 record and a D2 CIFSS Championship. He completed 219 out of 336 passes (65.2%) for 3,521 yards, throwing 49 touchdowns against just three interceptions, while also rushing for 435 yards and an additional 11 touchdowns.
Throughout his impressive career at Newbury Park, Smigiel has completed 729 out of 1,161 passes for 11,222 yards, accumulating 147 touchdowns and 28 interceptions. He has a starting record of 33-8 and has won at least one playoff game in each of his three years at the high school level.
Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 200 pounds, Smigiel is ranked as the No. 61 overall prospect, No. 5 quarterback, and No. 10 recruit in California in the 2026 class by 247Sports.
Florida State currently has six verbal commitments for its 2026 class, which ranks No. 8 nationally.
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