Oct 18, 2024; Durham, North Carolina, USA; Florida State Seminoles head coach Mike Norvell points prior to the first half of the game against Florida State at Wallace Wade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jaylynn Nash-Imagn Images Jaylynn Nash-Imagn Images

FSU football places recruiting spotlight on new pass-rushing talent

Originally posted on Florida State Seminoles on SI
By Dustin Lewis | Last updated Aug 24, 2025 3:00 PM ET

Don't expect Florida State's activity on the recruiting trail to slow down even with the 2025 campaign right around the corner.

The Seminoles have built #Tribe26 out during the summer months but still need to add talent at a few key positions leading up to the Early Signing Period in December.

One of the glaring weak spots in the class is at defensive end, where Florida State has yet to net a pledge. The program has missed out on the majority of its top targets and backup plans, leaving the coaching staff searching for a pass-rusher.

Florida State is putting its focus on a new target in the latter stages of August.

Seminoles Offer New Defensive End Prospect

On Sunday, the Seminoles extended a scholarship to three-star defensive end Damaad Lewis, who referred to defensive line coach Terrance Knighton when revealing the news on social media.

Lewis previously announced a top-five of Texas, Texas A&M, USC, Washington, and North Carolina State. Florida State is hoping to make a late play at the rising senior, who will spend the season at Myers Park High School.

Great conversation with @Coach_Knighton blessed to receive an offer from @FSUFootball !!#AGTG pic.twitter.com/cMzMM0sXtG
— Damaad Lewis (@DamaadLewis07) August 24, 2025

He's the brother of former LSU star Damien Lewis, who was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in 2020. Lewis moved to North Carolina when his older brother signed with the Carolina Panthers in 2024.

The 6-foot-4, 254-pound defensive lineman is regarded as the No. 433 overall prospect, the No. 51 DL, and the No. 22 recruit in North Carolina in the 2026 class according to the 247Sports composite ratings.

What's Next For Florida State?

Considering Lewis is already trimming down his recruitment, it'll be important for the Seminoles to get him on campus early in the fall to have any chance of changing his mind.

As things stand, Lewis isn't believed to have visited Florida State previously.