BREAKING: Florida State Pulls Off Home Run With Commitment of No. 1 Safety KJ Bolden
The last couple of weeks have completely put to bed the notion that Mike Norvell and Florida State's coaching staff struggle to recruit high school prospects. The Seminoles have landed more than half of their recruiting class since the beginning of July, surging the program toward the top of the country.
READ MORE: Offense Responds With Big Plays During Second Practice
After landing a commitment from five-star defensive back Charles Lester III last weekend, FSU pulled off a home run on Saturday with the pledge of No. 1 safety KJ Bolden. The Seminoles won out for Bolden over programs such as Georgia, Auburn, Ohio State, and Alabama.
This is arguably the biggest win on the recruiting trail for Norvell since he arrived in Tallahassee four years ago. Bolden's pledge gives the Seminoles a trio of five-star commitments (Bolden, Lester III, Landen Thomas) and the program might not be done yet. Florida State is still making a push to flip a five-star wide receiver such as Jeremiah Smith, Joshisa Trader, or Cameron Coleman.
While the Seminoles were Bolden's favorite team throughout his childhood, his relationship with defensive backs coach Patrick Surtain Sr. was also a factor in deciding to suit up in garnet and gold. Surtain Sr.'s NFL pedigree is something that caught his attention.
"Our bond is real tight. Their recruiting pitch is like real. Like some schools they'll recruit you and be fake with it and tell you stuff you want to hear even though it's not true," Bolden said to NoleGameday previously. "Coach Surtain, his recruiting pitch is definitely real. He's going to keep it real with you and he's been in the NFL. He knows a lot about the game, he can teach you a lot. He taught me a lot of new things over the week so that's definitely my guy for sure."
The Georgia native will probably be in Tallahassee for multiple games this fall. He's looking to take his official visit when Florida State matches up with Miami in November.
"Really just want to get lit with the fans," Bolden said. "Miami game, it's going to be real packed down here. Just want to see a great gameday experience, see the guys go out there and compete. I heard this year the team's looking very nice so hopefully go out there and get us a natty."
With his pledge, Florida State's class moves into the top five of the recruiting rankings, sitting firmly at No. 4 with 22 verbal commitments. There are still a couple of spots remaining for the Seminoles to hone in on other elite prospects.
As a junior, Bolden played on both sides of the ball and helped guide Buford High School to an 11-1 record and a playoff berth. He totaled 43 tackles on defense while catching 23 passes for 422 yards and two touchdowns on offense. Bolden also participates in track and field. He opened up the year with an 11.13-second 100-meter dash.
The 6-foot-1, 185-pound defensive back is regarded as the No. 7 overall prospect, the No. 1 S, and the No. 2 recruit in the state of Georgia in the 2024 class according to 247Sports.
READ MORE: Son of Florida State Legend Joins Seminoles As A Transfer From FAU
Stick with NoleGameday for more coverage of Florida State football throughout the 2023 season
