FSU Football Loses Defensive Line Target to SEC Program

Nov 15, 2025; Tallahassee, Florida, USA; Florida State Seminoles head coach Mike Norvell during the second half against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Doak S. Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Myers-Imagn Images Melina Myers-Imagn Images

FSU Football Loses Defensive Line Target to SEC Program

Originally posted on Florida State Seminoles on SI
By Dustin Lewis | Last updated Apr 12, 2026 4:30 PM ET

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Florida State's defensive line didn't consistently live up to expectations last season. That led to an offseason shuffle as the Seminoles went through a major transition up front. The program also brought in EDGE's coach, Nick Williams, to work in cohesion with defensive line coach Terrance Knighton.

Knighton played an important role on the recruiting trail last cycle as Florida State brought in eight high school/JUCO signees in #Tribe26. Meanwhile, Williams has developed a reputation for his ability to acquire talent early in his coaching career.

While #Tribe27 is still in its early stages, Knighton and Williams will have to re-evaluate the interior after one of their targets pledged elsewhere.

Three-Star DL AJ Pauley Chooses Alabama Over Florida State, Others

On Saturday, three-star defensive lineman AJ Pauley announced his commitment to Alabama during the Crimson Tide's A-Day. Pauley chose the SEC power over programs such as Florida State, Michigan, Tennessee, and Ole Miss.

This is a notable loss for the Seminoles. While Pauley just picked up an offer from FSU in January, he made his way to Tallahassee for an unofficial visit at the beginning of April. He was scheduled to return for an official visit from June 5-7, but that probably won't occur now that he's off the board to Alabama.

BREAKING: Class of 2027 DL AJ Pauley has Committed to Alabama, he tells me for @Rivals⁰⁰The 6’5 255 DL from Mobile, AL chose the Crimson Tide over Florida State, Michigan, and Ole Miss

“Roll Tide!”⁰https://t.co/SwPkd9P0LT pic.twitter.com/JoknWUUw0A
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) April 11, 2026

The 6-foot-5, 265-pound defensive lineman is regarded as the No. 539 overall prospect, the No. 64 DL, and the No. 21 recruit in Alabama in the 2027 class according to the 247Sports Composite Ratings.

Florida State is pursuing a wide variety of defensive lineman, including four-star Sam LeJeune, four-star Karlos May, three-star Jason Lewis, and three-star Wesley Gover.