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Top North Carolina DL Keith Sampson signs with Florida State

On3 imageby:Ira Schoffel•12/21/22•

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Defensive line has been a major priority in Florida State’s recruiting and transfer portal efforts this offseason, and one of the Seminoles’ prized recruits — North Carolina four-star standout Keith Sampson Jr. — signed on Wednesday, the first day of the early signing period.

This was a very big week for Sampson, who also was named the North Carolina Defensive Player of the Year by the state’s sportswriters. He is rated by the On3 Consensus as one of the nation’s top 25 defensive tackles and the No. 8 prospect in his state.

While Sampson has been committed to Florida State since March, there was some concern that the 6-foot-3, 285-pounder might flip to N.C. State after the Wolfpack made a big push in recent weeks. But Sampson took an official visit to FSU this past weekend and said he was locked in with the Seminoles.

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“It was home. It felt like home. Had a great time, got to meet a lot of commits,” Sampson said before leaving Tallahassee on Sunday. “Got to bond with players and coaches. I had a great time.”

According to MaxPreps, Sampson was credited with 18 sacks this season for New Bern High School. He also was credited with 94 total tackles in 14 games: 29 solo stops and 65 assists.

Sampson is part of a strong defensive line class for the Seminoles, which is expected to include players from the high school and junior college ranks, as well as the transfer portal.

Here is an On3 scouting summary of Sampson before his senior season:

Active interior defender that can stuff the run and also make plays from sideline to sideline. High motor player who is constantly chasing ball carriers. Dominant as a head-up pass rusher. Totaled 62 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, 25 hurries and 7 sacks in 8 games during his junior season. Comfortable with swim moves to get into the backfield. Will need to develop multiple moves and counters to have success at the next level. Solid build that will need to slightly redistribute his weight at the next level. Interior disruptor at the next level in the run and passing game. Need to see upgrades in his ability to stack and shed in order to thrive at the next level. NFL caliber athletic traits and size, just needs to put it all together.

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