"Everybody decommitting from FSU": Fans react as the Seminoles lose commitment of their highest ranked 2026 recruit Brady Smigiel

Florida State University (FSU) suffered a major blow when Brady Smigiel, a highly-touted quarterback from Newbury Park, California, decommitted from their 2026 recruiting class.

Smigiel, regarded as the cornerstone of the program’s future and the highest-ranked player in the Seminoles’ 2026 class, announced his decision to reopen his recruitment. This came following a turbulent season and significant coaching staff changes.

Smigiel’s departure has sparked mixed reactions among FSU fans. Some took to social media with lighthearted jabs, with one quipping:

“Everybody decommitting from FSU 😂”

Another remarked:

“Don’t go to Ohio State bro; it would be a waste of your time.”

Image via Ig@hayesfawcett3

Here is how other fans reacted:

"Future spartan dawg"

Image via Ig@hayesfawcett3

"You come to Ohio… I come out of retirement," a fan remarked in jest.

Image via Ig@hayesfawcett3

In response to Smigiel’s exit, the Seminoles swiftly began pursuing other top prospects. Offers have already been extended to four-star quarterbacks Bowe Bentley, Landon Duckworth and Keisean Henderson.

Despite this setback, the Seminoles’ 2026 class remains strong, boasting five commitments, four of whom are ranked as blue-chip prospects in the On300.

The class is headlined by two four-star wide receivers: Efrem White, the No. 51 overall prospect who joined the class in December 2023, and Darryon Williams, a top-75 recruit who committed in April 2024.

The class also includes four-star safeties Darryl Bell from Miami Barbara Goleman and Tedarius Hughes from Homestead South Dade, who are ranked No. 18 and 20 in their respective positions. Bell has been committed since 2023, while Hughes pledged last summer.

Brady Smigiel’s recruitment shifts after record-breaking high school career

Brady Smigiel, the No. 48 overall prospect and No. 6 quarterback in the 2026 class per the On3 Industry Ranking, is also ranked as the state’s No. 7 player. Smigiel recently garnered attention from powerhouse programs, with UCLA, Washington, South Carolina and Ohio State showing interest.

His father and coach, Joe Smigiel, confirmed:

“He definitely is planning on taking some trips,” the elder Smigiel said. “After the amazing season he had, 60 total TDs and only 3 INTs, which is best in the country and named Mr. California for all classes, he has gotten a bunch of interest. Especially when 11 of those TDs are rushing.”

FSU head coach Mike Norvell recently visited Smigiel alongside new offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn.

“Coach Norvell is special,” Smigiel told Warchant. “Just reminded me why I committed. Being able to see him again, and we had some important questions that me and my family had that were answered as I expected. He reminds me a lot of my dad as a coach, and that’s one of the huge reasons I committed.”

Smigiel led Newbury Park to a 14-1 record with 3,521 passing yards, 49 touchdowns, and three interceptions, adding over 400 rushing yards and 11 scores. His high school career totals exceed 11,000 passing yards and 147 touchdowns.