NEWS UPDATE: FSU football’s Ja’Elyne Matthews focuses on being the most dominate lineman ever seen… details below

🔥 Spotlight on Ja’Elyne Matthews

Profile & Potential

• At 6′6″ and 340 lb, Matthews is a mammoth true freshman from Toms River, NJ. Rated a four-star recruit and a 2025 Navy All‑American, he transferred from Rutgers this spring .
• FSU’s staff sees him as a high‑ceiling tackle with tackle/guard versatility — “his upside and potential are through the roof,” according to Mike Norvell .

Rebuilding Context

• After a brutal 2024 campaign where FSU surrendered 49 sacks, new O‑line coach Herb Hand has overhauled the line with transfers and recruits. Matthews adds youthful size to the revamped front.

Role & Expectations

• Although depth was a key focus last offseason, Matthews is seen as a developmental tackle and potential multi‑year starter..
• Spring grades from TomahawkNation gave him high marks as a “low‑risk, decent‑reward” addition who will be “groomed as a tackle”

Conference Recognition

• Sports Illustrated’s preseason ACC roundup names him among the top young linemen in the conference — a freshmen “who can play two ways” and should see meaningful action.

What It Means for FSU

• Immediate depth: He bolsters tackle options amid an experienced line that’s part of a complete rebuild.
• Long-term upside: His athletic profile and high school pedigree (three straight state titles at Toms River North) make him a candidate for significant roles down the road

Looking Ahead

• Will he earn early playing time? That likely depends on how quickly he adapts to FSU’s offensive system under Coach Hand.
• With ten new O‑linemen brought in, competition is fierce—but Matthews’ size and tools give him strong upside to stand out.

Let me know if you’d like a breakdown of the revamped FSU offensive line or further insight on Matthews’ spring performance!