Breaking: North Carolina 5-star LB have just been announced his transfer to FSU
Florida State University (FSU) is actively pursuing linebacker talent to bolster its defensive lineup for the upcoming season. A prominent target is North Carolina transfer Caleb LaVallee, who has recently entered the NCAA Transfer Portal. LaVallee, a 6-foot-1, 225-pound linebacker from Georgia, spent two seasons with the Tar Heels, redshirting in 2023 and contributing in 2024. Notably, he recorded nine tackles and a tackle for loss in North Carolina’s loss to UConn in the Wasabi Fenway Bowl.
FSU’s coaching staff is familiar with LaVallee, having recruited him during his high school years. He visited FSU’s campus twice before committing to North Carolina, attending a Junior Day in January and returning in April before his senior year. This prior relationship could be advantageous as FSU seeks to secure his commitment.
LaVallee is scheduled to visit FSU on January 1, 2025. This visit is significant, as FSU aims to make a strong impression and potentially secure his transfer. Analysts are optimistic about FSU’s chances; Brendan Sonnone of Noles247 has submitted a crystal ball prediction favoring FSU to land LaVallee.
FSU’s linebacker corps is undergoing a transformation. The team has already added Nebraska transfer Stefon Thompson and signed three-star recruit Ethan Pritchard during the Early Signing Period. Current scholarship linebackers eligible to return include redshirt junior Omar Graham Jr., juniors Blake Nichelson and Justin Cryer, and redshirt freshmen Jayden Parrish and Timir Hickman-Collins. Adding LaVallee would enhance depth and competition within this group.
LaVallee’s decision to transfer is part of a broader trend of player movement within college football, facilitated by the NCAA Transfer Portal. This system allows athletes to explore new opportunities and find programs that align with their personal and athletic goals. For FSU, securing transfers like LaVallee is crucial for addressing immediate roster needs and improving performance after a challenging 2-10 season.
As LaVallee’s visit approaches, FSU fans and analysts will be watching closely. His potential addition could significantly impact the Seminoles’ defensive strategy and performance in the upcoming season. The outcome of his visit and subsequent decision will be pivotal for both LaVallee’s career and FSU’s defensive lineup.
