In a surprising turn of events, Franklin Whitley, a former fifth-grade football player, has become a highly sought-after recruit, capturing the attention of top colleges. But here's the twist: he hadn't played the sport for years! And now, he's making headlines by committing to Florida State, leaving a host of other Power 4 offers behind.
Whitley's journey is a remarkable one. After a long hiatus from the game, he returned to the field this season and immediately showcased his talent. The offers started pouring in, with South Carolina, Florida State, Auburn, Florida, and Alabama all vying for his attention. But it was the Seminoles who made the biggest impression during his official visit.
"The transparency of the coaching staff and their no-nonsense approach really stood out," Whitley noted. And it seems the feeling was mutual, as the Seminoles were equally impressed by his potential. But here's where it gets controversial—Whitley's commitment comes just days after FSU secured two other highly-rated recruits, sparking debates about the ethics of college recruiting.
Standing at 6-foot-7 and weighing 265 pounds, Whitley is a force to be reckoned with. Despite his lack of recent football experience, he's dominated on the field, recording 31 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and three sacks in just 10 games. These impressive stats have earned him the No. 494 overall prospect ranking in the 2026 class, with high marks as an EDGE player.
Florida State's recruiting class is shaping up to be a powerhouse, with Whitley's commitment being the latest addition. But will this strategy pay off? Only time will tell. What do you think about the ethics of college recruiting? Is it fair for schools to aggressively pursue players, or should there be more regulation? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
