FSU is firmly in the mix for RB prospect from Tennessee

Florida State was the first program to extend a scholarship offer to 2027 three-star running back Asa Barnes last January. Back in September, they were said to be prioritizing Barnes, but he still hasn't taken a visit to see FSU up until this point.

According to Chad Simmons of Rivals, that is set to change this summer. Barnes is dropping the Kentucky Wildcats from his official visit schedule, and he's added Florida State. He'll take his trip to Tallahassee on June 5.

At the forefront of trying to land Barnes is FSU head coach Mike Norvell and running backs coach Kam Martin.

“I like how Norvell does things down there,” Barnes said. “And I like coach Kam too… we’ve been talking a lot. He’s a great coach. It will be great to get down there and spend some time with him.”

Barnes has taken trips to see the Tennessee Volunteers, Ohio State Buckeyes, and Alabama Crimson Tide, to name a few. He's been to Tallahassee before, but as was mentioned earlier, his visit this summer will be his first time on campus.

“I’ve been down there a few times… it’s a good place, a good city,” said Barnes. “I’m ready to see what it’s like at Florida State.

“I’m trying to make the best decision for my career, and I feel like Florida State is a school I need to consider.”

Barnes is the nation's No. 470 recruit and the No. 36 running back per Rivals' industry rankings. The 6-foot, 190-pounder is the No. 18 prospect in the state of Tennessee as well.

His breakout season at Westview High School came as a sophomore. Barnes ran for 812 yards on 94 carries, and he gained 221 yards on 16 receptions. He ended up scoring 25 total touchdowns as he helped Westview go 14-1 and make a state championship game appearance.