LB Target Marques Watson-Trent Commits to Nebraska: What Does This Mean for FSU?
By Kelvin Hunt | January 4, 2025
FSU football continues to finalize its winter transfer portal recruiting class. The linebacker position remains a key area of focus, and Georgia Southern’s Marques Watson-Trent recently emerged as a potential addition for the Seminoles.
Watson-Trent, a highly productive linebacker, recorded over 100 tackles each season for the past three years and was named the 2024 Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year. Despite a campus visit to FSU earlier this week, Watson-Trent ultimately committed to Nebraska following his visit there.
Commitment Details
- Player: Marques Watson-Trent
- Stats at Georgia Southern: 358 tackles, 6 sacks, 6 passes defended, 6 forced fumbles, 2 interceptions
- Accolades: 2024 Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year
- Eligibility: One year remaining
Some FSU fans have expressed frustration over missing out on Watson-Trent, but this may not be a significant setback. Although he demonstrated exceptional productivity, his performance came against lower-tier competition, and his smaller frame raises questions about his ability to excel at the Power Five level. The fact that he chose Nebraska over other top programs also speaks volumes.
FSU’s Next Steps
FSU has shifted its focus to Memphis linebacker Elijah Herring, who is visiting campus this weekend. Herring offers a taller frame and better reach compared to Watson-Trent. His experience against stronger competition adds to his appeal.
- Player: Elijah Herring
- Stats at Memphis: 60 tackles in 11 games (including 10 in the bowl game against West Virginia)
- Prior Experience: 80 tackles as a sophomore at Tennessee before transferring
Head coach Mike Norvell has strong connections with his former staff at Memphis, allowing the Seminoles to gather valuable insight into Herring’s abilities and character.
The Seminoles’ coaching staff has shown they can strategically manage recruiting. For example, they successfully convinced Duce Robinson to cancel a visit to Louisville. If they had prioritized Watson-Trent, they likely could have persuaded him to stay in Tallahassee.
Patience remains key as the staff executes its recruiting plan. Stay tuned for updates as FSU continues to address this critical position.
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