4-Star Edge Fred Ards Visits FSU for Legacy Weekend

Seminoles make strong impression on top defensive target

Mar. 28, 2026 at 8:22pm

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Orlando (Fla.) Jones four-star edge rusher Frederick Ards returned to Florida State on Saturday for the program's Legacy Weekend event. Head coach Mike Norvell and the Seminoles made a strong impression on the talented pass rusher, who was pleased with the energy, high standards, and overall environment he experienced during the visit.

Why it matters

Ards is a top defensive target for Florida State, and this visit could be pivotal in the Seminoles' efforts to secure an official visit and potentially land the 4-star prospect. Landing Ards would be a major boost for FSU's 2024 recruiting class.

The details

During the visit, Ards was impressed by the message and energy from head coach Mike Norvell, who emphasized the high standards and rich history of the Florida State program. Ards said he "loved the presentation" and the overall environment he experienced on campus.

  • Ards visited Florida State on Saturday for the program's Legacy Weekend event.

The players

Frederick Ards

A 4-star edge rusher from Orlando (Fla.) Jones High School, Ards is a top defensive target for Florida State in the 2024 recruiting class.

Mike Norvell

The head coach of the Florida State Seminoles, Norvell led the way in impressing Ards during the recruit's visit to Tallahassee.

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What they’re saying

“Today, it was the same energy as always. Coach Norvell, just a lot of work and it's a really high standard with the history FSU has. You've got to come in and work. Loving the presentation right now. Loving the environment.”

— Frederick Ards, 4-Star Edge Rusher

What’s next

If Ards is impressed enough by his visit, the next step would be for him to schedule an official visit to Florida State, which could be a crucial step in the Seminoles' efforts to land the 4-star prospect.

The takeaway

This visit was an important one for Florida State as they look to secure a commitment from one of their top defensive targets in the 2024 class. The strong impression made by the coaching staff and program could pay dividends down the road if Ards decides to take an official visit and ultimately chooses the Seminoles.