Florida State is making serious moves on the recruiting trail, and one of their top priorities for the 2027 class is four-star wide receiver Jabari Watkins. The Seminoles have been building a strong foundation with commitments from safety Mekhi Williams, linebacker Gregory Batson, and edge rusher Anthony Cavallaro, but landing a dynamic playmaker like Watkins could take their class to the next level.
The connection between Watkins and Florida State goes back to March of last year, when he made an unofficial visit to Tallahassee and left with a scholarship offer. Since then, the relationship has only deepened with additional visits in April and September, plus a Junior Day appearance in January and another stop in March. It's clear the Seminoles have made him a priority, and the feeling appears mutual.
Watkins has his official visits lined up for the summer, with trips to Louisville (May 29), Arkansas (June 5), Florida State (June 12), and Georgia Tech (June 19). But according to Noles247, the Seminoles are sitting at the "very top right now" on his list—a strong position for a program looking to lock in elite talent early.
Ranked as the No. 253 overall player nationally and the No. 34 wide receiver in the 247Sports composite, Watkins is a proven producer on the field. The Thomas County Central standout has been a force over the past two seasons, hauling in 39 catches for 692 yards and five touchdowns as a sophomore, then elevating his game as a junior with 55 receptions, 847 yards, and 11 scores. He also helped lead his team to a 5A state championship.
One of the most telling signs of Watkins' interest came during a recent practice, where he was spotted wearing Florida State gloves. Seminoles wide receivers coach Tim Harris Jr. was in attendance, and Watkins didn't hold back when talking about their bond. "He's like a father to me," Watkins said. "We're close."
Location also plays a big role in Watkins' recruitment. Thomas County Central sits just 45 minutes from Florida State's campus in South Georgia, a region the Seminoles have consistently targeted for talent. Being close to home is a major factor for the 6-foot-2, 180-pound receiver, and that proximity gives FSU a clear edge as they push to land one of their most coveted targets.