Top wide receiver target commits to the Florida Gators over FSU football
Despite their long-standing links to Gainesville, the Seminoles pursued the blue-chip prospect.
Florida State will have to continue looking for the remaining pieces of the jigsaw to complete its wide receiver class in the 2025 recruiting cycle.
On Sunday afternoon, four-star wide receiver Vernell Brown III announced his commitment to the Florida Gators over FSU, Ohio State, and Miami. Brown was one of the Seminoles’ top uncommitted targets, regardless of position, but winning this recruitment was always going to be difficult given his links to Gainesville.
Florida State had its best opportunity after hosting him during an official visit at the end of June. In addition, four-star quarterback Tramell Jones Jr. and Brown became good friends throughout the 7-on-7 circuit, which aided their cause.
Florida eventually earned Brown’s original promise after he grew up with the program. His father played for the Gators from 2001 to 2005 and was on staff for nearly six years (2018-23). He presently manages Anthony Richardson, a former Florida Gators quarterback and rising star for the Indianapolis Colts.
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During his junior season at Jones High School, the Florida native caught 70 receptions for 1,363 yards and 10 touchdowns, as well as returning three punts and one kickoff for scores. Brown also competes in track and field at the prep level, where he has two state qualifiers in the triple jump and a personal best of 43-7.25.
According to 247Sports, the 5-foot-11, 170-pound wide receiver is ranked as the No. 25 overall talent, No. 6 WR, and No. 5 recruit in Florida for the 2025 class.
Florida State has 12 verbal commitments in its 2025 class, which ranks No. 18 in the nation. The Seminoles have promises from two of the most highly rated receivers in the cycle: four-star Daylan McCutcheon and four-star CJ Wiley
