Florida is working hard to flip Florida State 5-star IOL commit Solomon Thomas
Jacksonville (Fla.) Raines five-star interior offensive lineman Solomon Thomas has been committed to Florida State since Dec. 22. He is still locked in with the Seminoles, but their in-state rival is working to flip him.
Thomas acknowledged that if there is a No. 2 school in his recruitment, it would be Florida. The 6-foot-4, 315-pound prospect added that the Gators, who are hosting him on an official visit from June 7-9, “no doubt” still have a shot to land his pledge.
“I like the availability at Florida and the assets they bring by being in the SEC,” Thomas told On3.
Florida has Thomas’ attention for multiple reasons
Thomas has communicated with both co-offensive coordinator/offensive line coach Rob Sale and new assistant offensive line coach Jonathan Decoster. He likes how Decoster can find and critique players’ skills because of his work with the Cleveland Browns and various college football programs.
Another reason why the Gators intrigue the No. 2 player in Florida is because their campus is around an hour-and-a-half away from Thomas’ family in Jacksonville. He is looking forward to getting back to Gainesville for his official visit next month.
“I want to see the continuation of relationships and the reality of college life play out,” said Thomas, the No. 20 overall prospect and No. 1 interior offensive lineman in the 2025 On3 Industry Ranking. “I know it is recruitment, so I know what it is and I am ready to get down to the business part of my recruitment.”
He sees himself as a fit in the trenches at the Swamp too.
“Florida has a realistic shot. Florida State is a smaller offensive line, but Florida has bigger guys for the SEC like myself. It is close to my family and my family is getting up in age, so I don’t want to go too far. I like how Florida uses two offensive line coaches too.”
Thomas is staying committed to Florida State amidst Florida’s push
Thomas is hoping to determine whether he sticks with Florida State or flips to another program before the end of the summer. Despite Florida and LSU – who will be getting an official visit from Thomas from May 31-June 2 – pushing hard for Thomas, he is still feeling very good about the Seminoles.
The five-star believes that Florida State is a “great football program” and has a strong coaching staff. He has already developed close bonds with head coach Mike Norvell and offensive coordinator/offensive line coach Alex Atkins.
“Coach Norvell and Coach Atkins are the best things about Florida State,” said Thomas, who is returning to Tallahassee for an official visit from June 21-23. “As a young recruit, the only negative about Florida State is the Transfer Portal. They live in the Portal a little bit and bring guys in, but Coach Norvell is a true motivator and supporter. Coach Atkins is a great coach too.”
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