4-star RB Byron Louis commits to Florida State: 'Florida felt like home'
Plantation (Fla.) American Heritage four-star running back Byron Louis has committed to Florida State.
He chose the Seminoles over offers from Miami, Ohio State, Wisconsin, Colorado and more than 20 other programs.
“Florida State felt like home,” Louis told On3. “Being there felt like something I was accustomed to. From the people down to the bricks on the school, down to the foundation that coach Mike Norvell has set, it reminded me of my school. It reminded me of home. I love the coaches, I like how the players conduct themselves and Tallahassee is a true college town. Florida State is a great place to be.”
When Louis broke down his commitment to On3, he said Georgia finished No. 2 with Miami and Wisconsin finishing third and fourth on this list. This decision wasn’t made this week around Louis’ announcement. He has known he wanted to be a Seminole for a while.
“When I visited [Florida State] in the 9th grade, in my heart, I had that feeling. It was early, but I felt great about Florida State very early. I went through the process, and on my last visit before official visits, I kind of knew it was going to be Florida State.
“I did my due diligence, I took my official visits, and on my official visit to Florida State, I committed to the coaches. They have known about my commitment for a few months, so it feels great to let everyone know.”
The coaches at Florida State played a big role in Louis’ commitment
Norvell was very involved in Louis’ recruitment. David Johnson was the lead recruiter. When Louis started high school, he played for Patrick Surtain. He made the move to Tallahassee to coach defensive backs, so that relationship factored in as well.
“What stands out about at Florida State is how genuine the people are,” Louis said. “All of the coaches are great. They are great people, great coaches and the relationships I have with them made a big impact on my commitment.”
Knowing Surtain made the 6-foot, 205-pounder feel that much more comfortable in Tallahassee. Johnson made him comfortable too. Norvell has him excited about his college career.
“I really like coach Norvell both as a person and coach. He turned the program around and whether it is a big win or your back is against the wall, his demeanor never changes. You always look for that beacon of hope and coach Norvell always has the back of his guys. He stays positive and he always has that energy.
“Next year, the team will be younger, there will be competition at different positions and I am ready to get in there and work and compete.”
Louis is the No. 219 overall prospect in the 2025 class, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He also ranks as the nation’s No. 14 running back and No. 32 recruit in the Sunshine State.