Za’Kari Johnson commits to FSU football

Florida State’s defensive backroom received a notable boost with the commitment of Za’Kari Johnson, a reclassified 4‑star prospect from Miami Carol City. The high school athlete, who tallied over 1,200 all‑purpose yards and 11 touchdowns, also contributed on the defensive side with 10 tackles, four pass breakups and an interception for Plantation. Johnson announced his pledge on social media, signaling his intention to play defensive back at the Tallahassee campus.

Johnson ranks as the 14th overall commitment for the program in the class of 2027, emerging as the fourth 4‑star signee and the second defensive back to join the Seminoles. His addition helped lift FSU’s 2027 recruiting class to 53rd place nationally, according to the latest rankings. The commitment adds depth to a unit that has been a focal point of the Noles’ rebuilding effort under Coach Mike Norvell.

Johnson signs as defensive back

The Miami Carol City star will transition to the defensive side of the ball, bringing experience from both offense and defense at the high school level. In his final prep season, he recorded 10 tackles and limited opposing receivers with four pass breakups, capping off a productive senior year. His versatility and defensive instincts make him a promising addition for Florida State’s secondary.

2027 recruiting class expands

With Johnson’s pledge, the Seminoles now boast a class that includes four 4‑star prospects and nine additional three‑star signees. The 2027 roster features talents across the field, from wide receivers and running backs to defensive linemen, linebackers, and defensive backs. This blend of star power and depth reflects FSU’s strategic focus on rebuilding a competitive roster.

Full 2027 class breakdown

• Sean Green, WR, 4‑star, Camden County (Kingsland, Georgia)

• Za’Kari Johnson, DB, 4‑star, Miami Carol City (Miami, Florida)

• Sam LeJeune, DL, 4‑star, Poplarville (Poplarville, Mississippi)

• Jayden Miles, RB, 4‑star, Baton Rouge Catholic (Baton Rouge, Louisiana)

• Jernard Albright, LB, 3‑star, Effingham County (Springfield, Georgia)

• Majay Thompson, WR, 3‑star, Crest (Shelby, North Carolina)

• CJ Ohuabunwa, LB, 3‑star, Greater Atlanta Christian School (Atlanta, Georgia)

• Jaxon Holly, edge, 3‑star, Roswell (Roswell, Georgia)

• Olrick Johnson III, LB, 3‑star, Harrison (Kennesaw, Georgia)

• Eric Vaulx, DL, 3‑star, Lake Cormorant (Lake Cormorant, Mississippi)

• Anthony Cavallaro, Edge, 3‑star, Indian Rocks Christian School (Largo, FL)

• Jemari Forman, S, 3‑star, Cypress Bay (Fort Lauderdale, FL)

• Connor Winn, TE, 3‑star, Bartram Trail (St. Johns, FL)

FSU class climbs to 53rd nationally

The addition of Johnson propels the Seminoles’ recruiting class into the 53rd spot on the national rankings, marking steady progress for the program’s rebuilding trajectory. This positioning reflects the collective impact of both high‑profile 4‑star signings and a robust group of three‑star prospects. As FSU looks to convert recruiting success into on‑field results, the improved class ranking provides a foundation for future competitiveness.

Upcoming season opener vs New Mexico State

Florida State will open its schedule on August 29 against New Mexico State, the first of many contests that will put the 2027 class in the spotlight. The game marks the start of what promises to be an exciting year for Seminole football fans. Expect the new recruits, including Johnson, to begin making their marks as the team builds toward a resurgence.

The hiring of Johnson and the continued influx of talent signal a promising chapter for Florida State football, as the program seeks to translate recruiting gains into victories on the field. Fans can look forward to seeing how these newcomers integrate with the existing core and contribute to the Seminoles’ quest for consistency in the ACC.