The Seminoles have a new linebacker coach who's already making waves by connecting with a standout talent, Gabriel Player from Eau Gallie High in Melbourne, FL. This towering safety is catching eyes as a potential linebacker at the college level, and the Seminoles are keen to bring him into the fold.
Player recently visited Tallahassee and was impressed by the energy and intensity fostered by the Seminoles’ coaching staff, particularly by the legendary Seminoles linebacker Sims. "The experience was great.
The coaches were welcoming," Player shared. "I loved how intense the practice was-how the coaches pushed everyone to their best."
But it wasn’t just the practice that caught Player’s attention. His conversations with Sims and the FSU staff outlined a versatile vision for his future.
"They see me as an all-around guy," Player explained. "In the box, on the line, blitzing, dropping back in zone-they see me everywhere."
Player and Sims have built a strong rapport, with Sims’ coaching style leaving a lasting impression. "I loved how intense he was.
It felt like he was on the field with the players," Player noted. "If there was a big play, he was right there, fired up with the team."
Despite not yet holding a star ranking from 247Sports, Player has already received 33 offers, with On3/Rivals listing him as a four-star recruit and the nation’s No. 20 linebacker for the 2028 class.
As for where FSU stands among his options, Player’s sophomore stats-59 tackles, 10 TFLs, two sacks, two INTs, and three forced fumbles-have certainly fueled his recruitment buzz. The Seminoles might just be leading the charge to secure his commitment.