Blue-Chip Recruit Chooses SEC Over FSU Football
Florida State’s search for a defensive end in the 2026 class remains ongoing, as the Seminoles’ recruitment efforts for the position have faced setbacks since June. With several missed opportunities for edge prospects, defensive end has become a pressing need for head coach Mike Norvell and his staff.
On Monday, four-star defensive end Jaquez Wilkes announced his commitment to Auburn, choosing the Tigers over Florida State, Alabama, Miami, and Texas A&M. Despite being offered by the Seminoles in May, Wilkes never made an official visit to Tallahassee, which made it seem unlikely he would ultimately commit to FSU.
Wilkes did, however, take visits to Auburn, Miami, and Texas A&M. His commitment to Auburn confirms Florida State’s limited chances in this recruitment, as Wilkes wasn’t deeply engaged with the Seminoles’ program.
A three-sport standout from Alabama, Wilkes excels in football, basketball, and baseball. The 6-foot-4, 285-pound defensive end is ranked as the No. 90 overall prospect, the No. 11 EDGE, and the No. 6 recruit in Alabama for the 2026 class by 247Sports.
Florida State currently has 21 verbal commitments in the 2026 class, ranking No. 15 nationally. The Seminoles have previously secured commitments from four-star defensive linemen Earnest Rankins, Tico Crittendon Jr., Tank Carrington, and three-star Wihtlley Cadeau. However, all of these defenders are expected to play on the interior rather than on the edge.
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