Florida State football is turning the page, and it’s starting with the future.
This weekend, the Seminoles are hosting several 2027 recruits for Junior Day - a pivotal moment in the recruiting calendar where programs get to make their pitch to the next wave of high school talent. For Florida State, this isn’t just another recruiting event. It’s a critical opportunity to re-establish the program’s momentum after a tough two-year stretch that saw just seven wins combined.
But there’s reason for optimism in Tallahassee. The 2026 recruiting class was a bright spot, finishing in the top 15 nationally, according to the 247Sports Composite rankings.
That’s a solid rebound and a clear signal that the Seminoles still carry weight on the recruiting trail, even if it’s not quite the top-five dominance fans remember from the Jimbo Fisher era. Still, it’s a step in the right direction - and a sign that talented prospects are once again seeing the value in donning the garnet and gold.
While much of the buzz has centered around big-name signees like Chauncey Kennon, Izayia Williams, Jasen Lopez, and Earnest Rankins, it’s often the less-heralded recruits who end up making the biggest impact. And one name to keep an eye on? Jonah Winston.
Yes, that Winston.
Jonah, a three-star wide receiver signee, is the younger brother of Florida State legend and Heisman Trophy winner Jameis Winston. But make no mistake - Jonah isn’t riding coattails. He’s bringing his own game to Tallahassee, and it’s one the Seminoles believe in.
Coming out of Alabama, Jonah was a versatile weapon in Gus Malzahn’s offense - a system that demands speed, vision, and playmaking ability. Whether lining up outside, in the slot, or even taking snaps in gadget packages, he showed he could deliver explosive plays in a variety of ways. That’s exactly the kind of flexibility Florida State needs in its wide receiver room as it looks to add more dynamism to the offense.
This weekend, Jonah made his official visit to campus - and he didn’t come alone. His big brother Jameis was right there with him, back in Tallahassee and walking the halls of the program he once led to a national title. It was a full-circle moment for the Winston family, and it wasn’t lost on anyone in the building.
Seeing Jameis back on campus isn’t just a nostalgic moment for fans - it’s a powerful reminder of what Florida State football can be when things are clicking. And for the younger Winston, it’s a chance to carve out his own legacy in a place that already feels like home.
The presence of a former Heisman winner and NFL quarterback on a visit like this doesn’t hurt Florida State’s recruiting efforts, either. It reinforces the message that this program has produced greatness - and is building toward doing it again.
But the real focus should be on Jonah and what he brings to the table. He may not have the five-star billing or the national headlines, but he’s got the tools, the pedigree, and the opportunity. If he can put it all together, fans at Doak Campbell Stadium might be hearing the name Winston echo through the speakers once again - only this time, it’ll be Jonah hauling in the touchdowns.
Florida State’s rebuild isn’t complete, but moments like this - hosting future stars, welcoming back legends, and investing in the next generation - are how it starts to take shape.