FSU Football Freshman TE Landen Thomas Excited About Upcoming Role on Offense

“I can go outside. I can play slots, you know? So I like the way they use me in their offense.”

Florida State University’s 2024 recruiting class takes shape on campus as freshmen and transfer students meet the media for the first time in Garnet and Gold. While much attention is paid to the NCAA’s national transfer portal, high school recruiting remains a component of any successful program.

Former Colquitt four-star Landen Thomas has been on campus since December, learning the game and bonding with teammates and staff. One of the main reasons he chose Florida State over programs like Georgia, Alabama and Michigan is the way coach Mike Norvell uses tight ends on offense.

“I like the way they spread everybody out on the field. It’s like they don’t keep anybody out there,” Thomas said of what he’s seen from the offense. “I can go outside. I can play slots, you know? So I like the way they use me in their offense.”

Former FSU tight end Jahaime Bell played a similar role in the offense as a gadget player who can play multiple positions. Thomas had 1,917 yards and 21 touchdowns on 114 catches at Colquitt County, and the way he used Bell caught his attention.

“I see them using Jaheim a lot because he moves him all over the field and catches the ball. So I liked it too. I thought, “I can do the same.”

According to Thomas, it’s not just about catching passes. However, he believes the easiest way to get on the field as a freshman is to use the blocking game, which fits well with Norvell’s philosophy. “As far as blocking, I think that’s the best way for me to get on the court. You know, not everybody can really block, so if I can block, I feel like I can. I can feel it faster. there is.”

With Bell gone, the likes of Kyle Morlock, Jackson West and Jerral Powers will return as tight ends, but that doesn’t mean we won’t see Thomas on the field again in 2024. Thomas’ full interview can be viewed below.