In a major development for Florida State University’s football program, Amari Clemons, one of the top running back prospects in the Class of 2026, has announced his commitment to the Seminoles. The announcement, made on January 27, 2025, marks a significant victory for head coach Mike Norvell and the Florida State coaching staff, as they continue to build a dynamic and promising recruiting class for the future.
Standing at 5 feet 10 inches and weighing 178 pounds, Clemons is an explosive and versatile running back known for his impressive combination of speed, vision, and agility. As a standout at Marianna High School in Marianna, Florida, Clemons has caught the attention of scouts and recruiting experts across the country. His ability to break tackles, accelerate through holes, and change direction on a dime makes him one of the most highly sought-after players in the 2026 recruiting class.
Clemons’ decision to commit to FSU was highly anticipated, with the Seminoles facing stiff competition from several other major college football programs. Clemons had received offers from schools such as the Florida Gators, Miami Hurricanes, Auburn Tigers, and others, all eager to secure his commitment. However, Clemons ultimately chose to stay in-state, citing his desire to play for a program with a rich football history and a strong track record of developing talent at the running back position.
Florida State’s recruiting efforts under Coach Norvell have been gaining momentum, and Clemons’ commitment is a clear indication that the program is headed in the right direction. The Seminoles have already secured several high-profile commitments for the Class of 2026, including wide receiver Efrem White, defensive back Darryl Bell III, and linebacker Karon Maycock. Clemons joins this group of promising young athletes who will look to make their mark on FSU’s future success.
For Clemons, his commitment to FSU is a chance to stay close to home and play for a program that has been known for producing elite running backs, including NFL stars like Dalvin Cook and Warrick Dunn. Clemons has expressed excitement about the opportunity to develop under FSU’s coaching staff, particularly with running backs coach David Johnson, who has been instrumental in recruiting and developing some of the best talents at the position.
In his high school career, Clemons has consistently dominated on the field. Known for his incredible burst of speed and impressive vision, he has a unique ability to read defenses and find lanes to gain yards after contact. His quick footwork and elusiveness make him a threat in both the running game and the passing game, showcasing his ability to catch passes out of the backfield and contribute to a multifaceted offensive scheme.
With his commitment, Clemons becomes an important building block for Florida State’s future offensive attack. His skill set is expected to mesh well with the up-tempo, high-powered offense that Norvell has been implementing since his arrival at FSU. Clemons is expected to contribute immediately upon his arrival on campus, with his ability to both run and catch the ball making him a versatile weapon in the Seminoles’ arsenal.
The addition of Clemons also bolsters FSU’s standing in the highly competitive recruiting landscape of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). As the college football world continues to evolve, securing top-tier talent like Clemons will be essential for Florida State to remain a powerhouse in both the ACC and on the national stage.
Clemons’ commitment is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting and pivotal recruiting cycle for FSU. As the Seminoles prepare for the future, fans are eagerly anticipating the arrival of this top running back prospect, confident that he will play a crucial role in the team’s success for years to come.
