“It’s amazing what they’ve got built up in the system": Four-star EDGE Zahir Mathis reflects on Florida State visit

Four-star edge rusher Zahir Mathis is the top uncommitted prospect in the 2025 recruiting cycle. He made his first visit to Florida State over the weekend, which has positioned the Seminoles as a serious contender for his commitment.

Florida State initially offered Mathis in March 2023 and was active in recruiting him before his commitment to Ohio State but stepped back following that decision. However, after Mathis decommitted, Mike Norvell's coaching staff wasted no time reigniting their efforts, led by linebackers coach John Papuchis, who was previously the Seminoles' defensive ends coach.

The latest visit has given FSU an edge in Mathis' recruitment.

“It’s amazing what they’ve got built up in the system,” Mathis said (via Warchant’s Matt LaSerre). “I like everything that they’ve got planned, and I see that it might be a good environment for myself."

During his visit, Mathis also connected with defensive line coach Terrance Knighton, who recently joined Florida State’s staff. Norvell also made a big impression on him.

"He (Norvell) was just talking to me very well, making sure I was comfortable," Mathis said. "He was spending a lot of time with me. We were just talking about the game, the scheme, he was watching everything we were doing. It was good to have that bond with coach Norvell."

Florida State has 21 committed players in the 2025 class, ranking No. 20 in the nation. The Seminoles have also added 16 players via the transfer portal.

Can Florida State secure Zahir Mathis' commitment?

Zahir Mathis is the No. 16 edge rusher in the 2025 class and the No. 119 prospect in the nation, according to On3. With his commitment decision around Feb. 1, Florida State's chance in his recruitment is a thing to watch.

Despite his decommitment from Ohio State, Mathis is still considering the Buckeyes. Ohio State remains the favorite, holding a 95.8% chance of regaining his commitment, according to On3, with all Crystal Ball predictions from 247Sports backing the Buckeyes.

However, his Florida State visit this weekend could shake up the odds. Despite being given less than a 1% chance initially, the Seminoles could strengthen their position with a strong showing.

Zahir Mathis will also officially visit UCLA on Jan. 18 and Michigan on Jan. 27. These programs remain in contention as well and would look to make late pushes before his decision.