Florida State Extends Offer to JUCO Safety in 2023 Class, Who Schedules OV to Tallahassee

Florida State has a depth problem at safety after Omarion Cooper and Travis Jay departed from the program to enter the transfer portal last week. With only two scholarship players that have experience at the college level, it's important for the coaching staff to address the position leading up to the 2023 season.

The Seminoles are evaluating multiple options ahead of the summer. Earlier this week, NoleGameday was informed that UAB safety transfer Jaylen Key would take an official visit to Florida State this upcoming weekend. Programs such as Alabama, Ohio State, Oregon, Ole Miss, and North Carolina are in the hunt for his services.

On Tuesday night, Florida State offered JUCO safety Ashlynd Barker out of Iowa Western Community College. Barker is a member of the 2023 class which means he could enroll this summer or in the fall. He's also set up an Official Visit to Tallahassee that will occur May 12-14.

Blseed to recieve a offer from Florida State 🍢🍢 @CoachEricFinney @CoachAdamFuller @ReiverFootball pic.twitter.com/6SGhxJA7w3
— Ashlynd Barker (@AshlyndBarker) May 3, 2023

Barker redshirted this past at Iowa Western CC and will have four years of eligibility remaining at his next stop. He's an intriguing prospect that possesses a blend of athleticism, length, and an ability to take good angles while pursuing ball carriers in space.

The Georgia native holds offers from Ball State, New Mexico State, and Jacksonville State outside of the Seminoles. He's previously taken an official visit to Ball State in March and has a trip scheduled to Oregon State May 19-21. The Beavers have yet to offer him a scholarship.

Florida State will have an opportunity to evaluate Barker in person next weekend. If both parties are a good fit for one another, the Seminoles will likely push to lock down a commitment before he departs from campus.

The 6-foot-3, 200-pound safety was a two-sport star at Northside High School on the football field and hardwood.

The Seminoles hold the No. 16 overall 2023 class in the country with 18 high school/JUCO signees and nine transfers.

Stick with NoleGameday for more coverage of Florida State football throughout the offseason.

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