Florida State football’s pursuit of key transfer portal targets took a significant turn on Friday evening when UCF veteran defensive tackle Lee Hunter announced he would be entering the portal. The announcement comes as a surprise to many, as Hunter had previously been projected as a potential 2025 NFL Draft prospect. However, with one final season of eligibility remaining, the 6’4″, 320-pound defensive lineman will now explore his options at the college level.
Hunter’s decision is notable not just for his talent, but also for the strong ties he shares with FSU head coach Gus Malzahn. Malzahn, who was Hunter’s head coach at UCF, helped develop the defensive lineman into a key contributor for the Knights. This connection could play a crucial role in Florida State’s pursuit, as the Seminoles are in need of a standout defensive tackle to bolster their front seven.
During his time at UCF, Hunter established himself as a force in the middle, showcasing excellent strength, quickness, and an ability to disrupt opposing offenses. His experience and leadership would provide an immediate boost to any defensive line, and FSU’s system could be an ideal fit for his skills.
Florida State has been aggressive in targeting players from the transfer portal to address position needs, and Hunter’s potential addition would be a major coup. As a proven commodity in the AAC, Hunter’s presence could immediately impact FSU’s defensive scheme, especially as they aim to compete for an ACC title and beyond.
With Hunter’s ties to Malzahn and the opportunity to compete at a high level, Florida State should be a serious contender for his services. Stay tuned as Hunter’s recruitment heats up in the coming days.
