Florida State continues to push for Florida 5-star DL commit LJ McCray

Daytona Beach (Fla.) Mainland five-star defensive lineman LJ McCray joined Billy Napier’s recruiting class at Florida toward the end of October. McCray told On3 that the position coaches at Florida can put him on the path to where he wants to go in his career, a major reason why he chose the Gators.

But, as the No. 8 overall prospect in the 2024 On300, being committed has not kept other power programs from trying to bring McCray to their school.

Florida State continues to push for McCray

On3 Director of Recruiting Chad Simmons told Josh Newberg on The Inside Scoop football recruiting show that Florida State continues to maintain a relationship with McCray and that the Seminoles’ on-field success is something of which McCray has taken notice.

“Yeah, LJ is a fun one to cover, man. He pushes this visit to go with his teammate, Zay Mincey — ‘Hey I’m just here with him,’ — stuff like that. But look, there’s been communication between McCray and the Florida State coaching staff since he committed to the University of Florida,” Simmons said. “Look, there was a lot of buzz four, five, six days out around Florida State before McCray made his announcement. It came down to Florida State and Florida, Auburn was very much in this as well.

“I think Florida has to be a little leery of Florida State,” Simmons added. “Him going back, I’m hearing there’s a chance he goes at least one more time between now and the early signing period. He’s been there many times, he has some connections in that Tallahassee area as well. And the way they’re playing on the field, you can’t deny what FSU is doing — 10-0 under Mike Norvell, in the College Football Playoff as we stand today. He’s taken notice of that. FSU has not given up, they’re not waving the white flag. Florida State still is very much in this race.”

LJ McCray Scouting Summary

On3 Director of Scouting and Rankings Charles Power writes this about McCray as a prospect:

“Big-framed, athletic defensive lineman with pass-rush ability. Has translatable physical attributes and athleticism at the position that point to a high developmental ceiling. Measured in at over 6-foot-6, 260 pounds prior to his senior season. Has outstanding length and a large frame. Arms check in at 34.75 inches, with hands measuring 10.5 inches. Lines up as a big defensive end on Friday nights.

“Shows upside as a pass rusher, using first-step quickness to get into the backfield. Has high-end closing speed for a player of his size. Plays with a very encouraging level of physicality. Bullies offensive linemen on contact and finishes plays with violence. Works to get off blocks with vigor. Also sees time as a tight end. Finished his senior season with 17.5 tackles for loss. Can continue honing his technical skill as he fills out and grows into his body.”