Matthew Thomas: 5-Star Florida State LB Highlights Strong Recruiting Class

It wasn't his first option, but 5-star linebacker Matthew Thomas will be spending the next four years at Florida State (h/t ESPN):

The Miami Hurricanes were reportedly Thomas' first choice, but after Denver Kirkland's offer was rescinded, both Kirkland and Thomas decided to go in a different direction.

According to 247 Sports' Tom Loy (h/t Canes Warning), Thomas seems pleased with his choice:

"

I have the best relationship with coach Fisher at Florida State.  The rest of my family feels great about him too.  Coach Jimbo is a good guy and I can really trust him.  I am looking forward to playing for him.

"

As the second-best outside linebacker of the 2013 recruiting class (according to 247 Sports), Thomas brings a raw style to the Seminoles defense.

Just look at what he did to Shane Morris in the Under Armour All-America Game:

The 6'3", 210-pound OLB still has some work to do in pass coverage, but he already possesses the ability to blow up plays at the line of scrimmage before they get started.

The highly athletic linebacker will join an impressive 2013 recruiting class that's ranked No. 8 by 247 Sports.

The Seminoles have locked down two 5-star recruits and eight 4-star players, highlighted by 5-star CB Jalen Ramsey, 4-star ILB E.J. Levenberry and 4-star OG Ira Denson.

Other notable 4-star recruits include a pair of wide receivers in Levonte Whitfield and Isaiah Jones as well as athlete Marquez White.

While FSU boasts a slew of talented recruits, make no mistake about it—Thomas is the cream of the crop in this recruiting class.

He's an excellent edge rusher and outside blitzer and should make an immediate impact for the Seminoles defense come 2014.

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