Ernie Sims is making FSU more appealing to in-state linebacker recruit

There's a ways to go before the 2028 recruiting cycle gets here, but that hasn't stopped Florida State from dipping its toes in the water. They extended an offer to linebacker recruit Gabriel Player back in January.

It wasn't until this past Thursday that Player would step foot on campus for the first time. He was able to take in a spring and see what the culture at FSU was all about, and the 6-foot-4, 190-pounder liked what he saw a lot.

"The experience was great. The coaches were welcoming," Player said via Noles247. "I love the atmosphere. I loved how the intense the practice was -- how the coaches were not letting anybody slack off. Trying to push everybody to their best ability."

When Player got his offer from Florida State, it was Ernie Sims who was at the forefront. Sims is entering his first season as linebackers coach, making the upcoming recruiting cycle a vital one for what he's trying to accomplish.

The bond between Sims and Player started immediately and has helped the Seminoles in their standing with the Eau Gallie High School star.

"I talked to him before and we already had a connection before I came here and talking to him, it just made me see how he feels for my future and what he can do for me to help develop my game," Player said about Sims.

As far as his fit in Sims' system, Player said that he's being viewed as a chees piece.

"Talking to them, they said they see me as an all around guy. They can use me in the box, on the line, blitzing, dropping back in zone -- they see me everywhere," Player said.

Player had a very productive sophomore season. He finished with 59 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, two sacks, two interceptions, two pass breakups, three forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries.

247Sports doesn't have Player ranked at the moment. The Rivals industry rankings have him listed as the No. 231 overall player, the No. 20 linebacker, and the No. 29 prospect in the state of Florida.

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This article originally appeared on FSU Wire: FSU Football: Florida State making waves with LB Gabriel Player