Florida State University made a significant impact in recruiting by securing commitments from two highly regarded prospects from the Southeastern Conference (SEC) on Monday. Four-star tight end Xavier Tiller of Langston Hughes High School in Fairburn, Georgia, chose the Seminoles over Auburn and Alabama, while wide receiver Devin Carter flipped back to Florida State after previously committing to Auburn. These moves highlight Florida State’s growing momentum in attracting elite talent from SEC programs.
Xavier Tiller’s commitment shifts from Texas A&M to Florida State
Tiller, a 6-foot-5, 225-pound tight end, initially committed to Texas A&M but reopened his recruitment in February. After considering opportunities, he ultimately decided on Florida State, valuing the prospect of early playing time and strong relationships with coaches. Reports indicate that FSU’s staff, including Gus Malzahn and Randy Thomsen, presented Tiller with a versatile offensive role incorporating flex sets and in-line blocking, which played a key role in his decision.
“Four-Star TE Xavier Tiller has committed to Florida State, he tells me for @on3recruits. The 6’5 225 TE from Fairburn, GA chose the Seminoles over Alabama & Auburn. ‘I’m home! Go Noles!’”
—Hayes Fawcett, Recruiting Analyst
Devin Carter reverses commitment, returning to Florida State
Devin Carter’s commitment journey included an initial pledge to Florida State followed by a switch to Auburn on January 11. However, on Monday, Carter changed course once again, electing to return to the Seminoles. This decision came after an official visit to Auburn, where he expressed confidence in the program and support from wide receivers coach Marcus Davis and head coach Hugh Freeze. Despite this, Florida State maintained persistent recruiting efforts that eventually persuaded Carter to come back.
This flip significantly affects Auburn’s recruiting class, reducing their number of commitments for 2026 to five and ranking them 62nd nationally. It also marks a second major decommitment for Hugh Freeze’s program within two days, presenting a challenge as Auburn prepares for a tough 2025 schedule.
Auburn faces a challenging 2025 season with early tough road games
Auburn’s upcoming season begins on the road with a game at Baylor on August 30, followed by three more difficult road contests against Power Four opponents within the first five weeks: Oklahoma on September 20, Texas A&M on September 27, and an open week on October 4. The schedule poses early tests for the team amid recent recruiting setbacks.
The Seminoles’ successful recruitment of Carter and Tiller underlines their ability to compete with SEC teams for elite players. These commitments boost Florida State’s recruiting profile and improve their prospects moving forward.