In a move few saw coming, 5-star tight end James Flanigan — one of the most unique and physically dominant prospects in the 2025 class — has officially resigned from his verbal commitment to Notre Dame and flipped to Florida State, choosing the Seminoles over Penn State, Michigan, and Georgia.
Flanigan, listed at 5’6” and 250 pounds, has defied traditional molds for the tight end position and carved out a national reputation as an unstoppable mismatch weapon with elite footwork, brute strength, and surprising agility.
In a brief video posted to his social media, Flanigan simply said:
“Tallahassee feels like home. I believe in what Coach Norvell is building — and I want to be part of a new dynasty in the making.”
Sources say Florida State had been quietly recruiting Flanigan behind the scenes, offering him a more dynamic role in their offensive scheme — including goal-line packages, H-back versatility, and even motion use to confuse defenses.
Despite his unconventional height for the position, Flanigan has posted staggering production:
- 2024 stats: 63 receptions, 801 yards, 14 TDs
- Pancaked defenders on 52% of his run-block reps
- Clocked a 4.73 40-yard dash at an Under Armour camp
- Described as a “bowling ball with hands” by one SEC scout
He’s often likened to a hybrid of NFL legends like Mike Alstott and Delanie Walker, and many believe his low center of gravity gives him a leverage advantage that taller defenders struggle with.
“James is one of the toughest, smartest, and most complete football players in the country. He plays with heart, discipline, and violence — and that’s exactly what we’re building here at Florida State,” said head coach Mike Norvell.
Flanigan joins a rising 2025 class for the Seminoles that is now ranked Top 5 nationally. His commitment also signals FSU’s growing power in flipping top-tier recruits from traditional blue bloods, a sign that the Seminoles are back in championship-level recruiting territory.
Insiders say Notre Dame’s staff was “blindsided” by the decision. Flanigan had been a vocal Irish commit for months, and his departure leaves a major hole in their offensive plans.
James Flanigan is not just a player — he’s a movement. He’s reshaping the definition of what a tight end can be, and he’s doing it with swagger, power, and now — Seminole pride.
