Florida State is aggressively pursuing multiple quarterbacks in the 2026 recruiting cycle, with four-star prospect Landon Duckworth emerging as a top target. The Seminoles extended an offer to Duckworth last month, and despite the late push, they have quickly become one of his leading choices.
“There are other schools I’m considering, but Ole Miss, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida State are the main ones right now,” Duckworth told On3’s Chad Simmons. “All of them are staying in contact, encouraging me to visit in the spring, and I plan to take official visits to all four.”
Though FSU’s offer came recently, Duckworth has a strong connection with offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn, who previously recruited him at UCF and nearly secured his commitment. Head coach Mike Norvell has also been proactive in building a relationship, recently traveling to Jackson, Alabama, to visit the talented quarterback.
“Coach Norvell came to my school, so I got to meet him, and I already know Coach Malzahn well from my UCF visits,” Duckworth said. “Malzahn is a great offensive coach—he worked with Cam Newton, and I see some similarities between my game and Cam’s.”
Ranked No. 106 overall and the No. 8 quarterback in On3’s industry rankings, Duckworth is also the No. 8 player from Alabama.
His junior season at Jackson High School was his best yet, earning him Alabama’s Class 4A Back of the Year honors after leading his team to a 14-1 record and a state championship. He completed 66.7% of his passes (162-243) for 3,439 yards, 39 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions while also rushing for 648 yards and 12 touchdowns on 62 carries.
Duckworth’s dual-threat ability makes him an ideal fit for Malzahn’s run-first offense, which thrives with a mobile quarterback. FSU will need to solidify an official visit and continue strengthening its relationship with Duckworth as the recruiting battle heats up.
