Richie Leonard IV Commits to the #Climb

It is always a good day when you steal a player from an arch rival.

Mike Norvell continues to put his head down and work. Even if he’s just signed a new contract that will pay $10 million plus annually. Today was no different as Florida State lands another commitment out of the transfer portal. It is especially great for FSU when the commitment they take weakens an arch rival in the process.

Who is this player that is breaking the hearts of Florida Gator fans everywhere? The player is Richie Leonard IV an interior offensive lineman who started in all 12 games for the Florida Gators last season.

Coach Atkins has made it clear as well as Norvell that they want to fortify the trenches as much as they can. They are accomplishing this goal by signing the former Florida Gator.

What is FSU getting with Leonard IV? Experience, experience, and more experience. Over the course of four seasons at the University of Florida, Leonard stepped up in the offensive line room and served an important role for the team.

He has extensive starting experience in the SEC which makes him a vital depth piece for this upcoming season. Leonard’s PFF grade is 64, which means that there is room for improvement. If we know one thing about Coach Atkins, he gets the most out of the men who play for him. I’m confident he can get the best football out of Leonard for his final year of eligibility.

Regardless, this is an excellent acquisition for the offense as it gives them another lineman who can play at a competent level. As I’ve stated in previous articles, injuries tend to strike the trenches more than any other position group.

The more depth that FSU can acquire for the trenches the better their chances are of achieving their goals for next season. Congrats to the Seminoles on landing another important piece that will help them compete for a conference title next season and a playoff berth.