Charles Lester III, 4-star defensive back, commits to Florida State over Alabama, Colorado and Georgia

SARASOTA, FLORIDA- One of the most highly anticipated commitments right before high school football practices officially get going on Monday took place on Friday evening for Venice cornerback Charles Lester III.

Lester III, who transferred to Venice from Sarasota Riverview during the offseason, had always been linked to Florida State but Deion Sanders and Colorado made a late push for the Indians’ top defensive back.

He decides to remain in the Sunshine State regardless.

Lester III announced Friday night at the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex that he is heading to Florida State and committing to play for Mike Norvell and the Seminoles. The defensive back is a 4-star rated Class of 2024 prospect according to 247Sports and chose Florida State over Alabama, Colorado and Georgia.

According to 247Sports, Lester III is the No. 4 ranked player in the Sunshine State and No. 16 nationally. Last season for the Rams, Lester III picked off five passes and caught 34 passes for over 340 yards on offense at receiver.

He joins a Venice team that is undoubtedly a contender for the Class 4S state championship this 2023 season.

Andy Villamarzo can be reached at andyvillamarzo@gmail.com and follow him on Twitter @Andy_Villamarzo.