Mike Norvell's FSU lands commitment from 4-star WR Malik Clark to the class of 2025: Reports

By Maliha

Modified Jul 26, 2024 11:46 GMT

Four-star wide receiver Malik Clark from Rock Hill High School in South Carolina has announced his commitment to Florida State's 2025 recruiting class. He announced the decision at a signing day event in front of his family, friends, coaches, media and his high school's supporters, choosing head coach Mike Norvell's program over South Carolina.

Clark had a busy summer with official visits to North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida State and NC State. The Seminoles extended an offer to Clark in May and he officially visited Tallahassee on June 14.

Clark becomes the No. 13 player to join Florida State's 2025 recruiting class, adding a big boost to the wide receiver position alongside fellow four-star recruits Daylan McCutcheon and CJ Wiley. Interestingly, all three wide receiver commits hail from outside the state of Florida.

In his junior season at Rock Hill, Malik Clark recorded 800 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. He also proved his speed on the track, finishing the season with a remarkable 10.62-second 100-meter time.

The Seminoles now have 13 commits in its 2025 recruiting class. They still need to address other positions, including linebacker, defensive end and offensive line.

Why did Malik Clark pick Florida State over South Carolina?

Most experts believed the battle for the Malik Clark was primarily between North and South Carolina. South Carolina was even predicted to be his final choice as late as Thursday. Clark had only visited Florida State once, compared to two visits to North Carolina and three to South Carolina.

Despite the Gamecocks having 19 total commits and expecting Clark to be their next commit, the prospect favored Florida State for several reasons.

One of the primary reasons Malik Clark decided on Florida State was the potential to play early in his freshman season. Coach Norvell assured him that he would have the chance to see the field early on.

The next factor was a home-like feeling. Despite the geographical distance from his South Carolina home, Clark spoke warmly about the welcoming atmosphere he experienced at Florida State:

“The home feel,” Clark told On3. “For it to be so far away from home and feel like home is always a great thing. The way you can come around here and feel like you’re already on the team, even if it’s their first time meeting you.”

Clark is also drawn to Florida State’s potential for competing at the highest levels:

“You got to get getback for that,” Clark told the Charlotte Observer. “With it being a 12-team playoff, I feel like (getting to the playoffs) won’t be a problem for Florida State. They’re usually always in the top-10. They’re getting back to where they used to be where they were always in the top-five. I feel like it’s the best spot to compete for a national championship.”

247Sports ranks Malik Clark as the No. 213 prospect in the country, the No. 24 wide receiver in the 2025 class and the No. 3 recruit in South Carolina. On3 has him as the No. 237 prospect in the country, the No. 33 wide receiver in the class and the No. 6 recruit in South Carolina.