In a surprising turn of events, Florida State welcomes two unanticipated football recruits, shaking up the transfer portal scene. But who are these players, and why is their arrival making waves?
The Unforeseen Duo:
On a Sunday morning, Florida State University (FSU) received two unexpected visitors: Nate Pabst, a senior offensive tackle from Bowling Green, and Rylan Kennedy, a redshirt sophomore defensive end from Texas A&M. This news sent ripples through the college football world, as these players were not initially on FSU's radar.
Nate Pabst: The Rising Star
Hailing from Springdale, Ohio, Pabst has been a standout at BGSU since 2021. With an impressive 42 games and 38 starts under his belt, he dominated the 2025 season, playing 783 snaps, primarily on offense. His versatility shone as he excelled at both right tackle and right guard positions. What's more, he allowed only one sack in 354 passing plays, showcasing exceptional protection skills. His leadership skills are evident, having been a team captain, and he was rightly honored with Second Team All-MAC recognition. Pro Football Focus (PFF) graded him at 70.3 for offense, with solid run and pass blocking grades.
But here's where it gets intriguing: Pabst's PFF grades have shown consistent improvement. From a modest 47.9 in 2023, he climbed to 58.9 in 2024, and finally hit 70.3 this past season. His pass protection has evolved remarkably, reducing QB pressures and sacks significantly. This upward trajectory is a testament to his dedication and potential.
Rylan Kennedy: The Agile Defender
Kennedy, a native of Mansfield, Texas, has been a consistent performer for the Aggies. In his three seasons, he has played in 35 games, accumulating 40 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks. His PFF grade of 67.0 in the past season, coupled with impressive pass-rushing grades in the previous two years, highlights his prowess. And with an 87 transfer grade from 247Sports, FSU is eager to add his speed and talent to their defensive line.
The FSU Perspective:
Florida State's interest in these players is strategic. After a season lacking speed rushers, FSU is keen to bolster their defensive line with Kennedy's agility. Additionally, Pabst's steady improvement and leadership qualities make him an attractive prospect. And with connections to FSU's new defensive coach, Nick Williams, Kennedy's transition could be seamless.
This unexpected turn of events raises questions: Will these players live up to the hype? Can they help FSU rise to new heights? The transfer portal continues to surprise, and these additions have certainly sparked excitement and curiosity among fans and experts alike.
