Florida State Football: Latest Summer News and Recruiting Updates

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The Florida State Seminoles are hoping that this is the season they are able to return to the top of the college football world after a few hiccups in recent years.

They return 18 starters from last year's squad—nine on each side of the ball—and have a favorable schedule to compete for the ACC title.

The Seminoles also have a ridiculous recruiting class coming in that includes 19 talented players.

The 2013 class has gotten off to a fast start as well, as they have already landed 13 early commitments, including several 5-star and 4-star players.

With many other top recruits considering Tallahassee, Jimbo Fisher and company are not about to stop now.

Here are some of the latest updates on Florida State Seminole recruits for the 2013 class.

Noles Land Christian Morgan

The Seminoles' most recent commitment comes from 4-star tight end Christian Morgan. This is a big pickup because he has the ability to produce right away at 6'4", 255 pounds.

He catches the ball extremely well, handles his fair share in the blocking department and can also play the defensive side of the ball if needed.

“To have a place like that believe in me, it made me say, ‘Why not?’ It’s an incredible opportunity. I’m ready to be a Seminole” (via ESPN).

Morgan also had offers from Arkansas, Miami, Vanderbilt and Arizona State, among others.

Rickey Jefferson Includes FSU

Rickey Jefferson is a speedster who can play wide receiver or running back at the next level. He is a playmaker with the ball in his hands and has the ability to spark an offense with big plays.

He is coming off a torn ACL, but says he is fine and ready to go:

"Everything’s been real good. I’ve been racking up on offers and working hard," Jefferson said. "I had a lot of coaches come to visit over the spring. They’re saying I don’t look like I missed a beat from when I got hurt" (via ESPN).

The younger brother of former LSU quarterback Richard Jefferson says he plans to visit both Alabama and LSU and will try to include Florida State in that trip as well.

Keep an eye on this 4-star recruit's process—he can impact an offense in a big way.

Davin Bellamy a Seminole?

Defensive end Davin Bellamy's stock keeps rising.

The 6'5", 255-pounder has the athleticism and pass-rushing skills to be a force at the collegiate level. He gets off the line quickly and uses his hands well.

Bellamy expects to make his decision on August 1 before visiting his top three schools one last time—Georgia, Vanderbilt and Florida State.

“I talked it over with my coach and my mom and Aug. 1 is the first day we will be in full pads,” Bellamy said. “So for security reasons, like getting hurt, I choose that date to make my decision” (via ESPN).

Many believe that the Seminoles are the favorites for his services, but Bellamy is concerned about the lack of playing he would get at Florida State due to the amount of depth on the defense.

James Wilder Jr. Still in Jail

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Florida State running back James Wilder Jr. has been in jail for about a week now and it appears he will stay there for at least a few more days.

Wilder turned himself in last week after violating his probation with a failed breathalyzer test. His original arrest came back in February when he was accused of battery on a law enforcement officer—a charge that was later reduced.

His next court appearance should happen sometime next week, and Wilder's lawyer hopes he will be a free man when that takes place.

"I'm hoping they'll give him time served and get him out," Tim Jansen said. "Hopefully he can just get back to football" (via ESPN).

Wilder contributed last season as a freshman, rushing for 160 yards and scoring his only touchdown of the year in a game against Wake Forest.

Jamal Carter Wants to Check out FSU

Jamal Carter is the type of player that can help contribute on offense, defense and special teams due to his speed and versatility.

He has good size at 6'1", 190 pounds and is a playmaker with the ball in his hands. The 4-star safety has three schools in mind and hopes to begin visiting them soon.

“LSU, Ohio State and Florida State – those are the three schools I want to go see,” Carter said (via Scout.com).

Carter, who is from Miami, Fla., says that immediate playing time will play a big factor into his decision.