Messiah Hampton Chooses Florida State Seminoles Over Penn State and Ohio State in a Big Recruiting Win
In a major recruiting development, 4-star wide receiver Messiah Hampton has announced his commitment to the Florida State Seminoles, decommitting from his previous pledge to a New York State school. Hampton, a highly sought-after prospect, chose Florida State over several top-tier programs, including Penn State University and Ohio State University, solidifying the Seminoles’ position as one of the most formidable teams in the 2025 recruiting cycle.
The decision has sent shockwaves through the college football world, with many seeing it as a huge win for Florida State’s head coach Mike Norvell and his staff. Hampton’s decision adds to a growing sense of momentum for the Seminoles as they continue to rebuild and reassert themselves as a powerhouse in the ACC.
Hampton, who hails from the state of New York, has long been considered one of the top wide receiver prospects in the country. His 6-foot-2, 195-pound frame, combined with his impressive speed and agility, make him a dangerous weapon on the field. Last season, he racked up impressive numbers, showcasing his ability to make plays both as a deep threat and a possession receiver. His highlight reel is filled with jaw-dropping catches, where he demonstrates excellent route running, strong hands, and the ability to gain separation from defenders.
What sets Hampton apart is his versatility. While many wide receivers excel in one specific area, Hampton is known for his all-around game, making him a perfect fit for multiple offensive schemes. He has the speed to stretch the field, the hands to make contested catches, and the agility to make defenders miss in open space. These skills have made him a coveted recruit for several powerhouse programs, and his decision to commit to Florida State is a clear indicator of his belief in the Seminoles’ ability to develop talent and compete at the highest level.
Hampton’s commitment to Florida State comes as a bit of a surprise to many, as he had been committed to a New York State school for several months. However, after taking an official visit to Tallahassee, it became clear that the Seminoles had made a lasting impression on the talented receiver. Hampton spoke highly of the coaching staff, particularly Coach Norvell, who has been instrumental in turning around Florida State’s football program over the past few seasons.
“I just felt like Florida State was the best fit for me,” Hampton said in an interview following his commitment. “The coaching staff really believes in me, and they have a vision for my development. I know they’ll help me reach my full potential both as a player and as a person. The culture there is something special, and I’m excited to be part of it.”
Florida State’s success on the recruiting trail has been notable in recent years, with the Seminoles landing multiple high-profile prospects for the 2025 class. With Hampton on board, they’ve secured one of the top wide receivers in the nation, further bolstering an already impressive recruiting class. This commitment is seen as another positive step for a program that is quickly regaining its national relevance.
Hampton’s decision to choose Florida State over major programs like Penn State and Ohio State speaks volumes about the Seminoles’ recruiting efforts. Penn State, led by head coach James Franklin, has long been a top contender for Hampton’s services, with the Nittany Lions boasting a rich history of wide receiver development. Ohio State, under Ryan Day, is one of the top programs in the nation and a perennial contender for national championships. For Florida State to beat out these prestigious programs is a testament to the program’s upward trajectory.
Florida State’s ability to land Hampton also highlights the growing appeal of the Seminoles’ offense. Under Norvell’s leadership, Florida State has embraced a high-tempo, dynamic offensive system that allows playmakers like Hampton to thrive. With a strong returning quarterback and a solid offensive line, the Seminoles are well-positioned to make noise in the ACC in the coming seasons, and Hampton will be a key part of that future.
With Hampton now in the fold, Florida State’s 2025 recruiting class continues to gain momentum. The Seminoles have already secured commitments from a number of highly rated prospects, and Hampton’s decision to join the team will undoubtedly make them an even more attractive destination for other elite recruits. The Seminoles have been a powerhouse in college football in the past, and with each new commitment, they are building towards returning to prominence in the college football landscape.
For Hampton, the future is bright. As he prepares for his senior season of high school football, his focus will be on continuing to develop his skills and finishing his prep career strong. Once he arrives in Tallahassee, Hampton will look to make an immediate impact in the Seminoles’ offense and help them continue their ascent toward the top of college football.
In the world of college football recruiting, few decisions can have the impact that Messiah Hampton’s commitment to Florida State is sure to have. As one of the nation’s top wide receiver prospects, Hampton’s future in Tallahassee looks promising, and fans are eager to see what’s next for the Seminoles as they continue to build a championship-caliber team.
