Breaking: Four-Star CB from Florida Chooses Seminoles After Pivotal Talks with Coach Mike Norvell
In a major recruiting development, four-star cornerback CJ Bronaugh has officially flipped his commitment from Nebraska to Florida State University (FSU) following what sources are calling a “game-changing” conversation with Seminoles head coach Mike Norvell. Bronaugh, a rising senior from Windermere High School in Winter Garden, Florida, had been committed to Nebraska since late 2024, but his recent visit and dialogue with FSU coaches swayed his decision.
The 6-foot, 175-pound defensive standout is ranked among the top 10 cornerbacks in the 2026 class and had become a cornerstone of Nebraska’s defensive recruiting. That all changed after FSU’s persistent efforts and a heartfelt sit-down with Norvell and his defensive staff, which included defensive backs coach Patrick Surtain Sr. and safeties coach Randy Shannon.
“He’s Coming to FSU”
Multiple sources close to Bronaugh’s camp have confirmed the switch. One source with knowledge of the meeting said plainly, *“He’s coming to FSU. The visit sealed it, but the conversation with Coach Norvell made it official in CJ’s mind.”* While an official announcement is expected this weekend, the word from both the Bronaugh family and Florida State’s staff is that the talented defensive back is headed to Tallahassee.
The meeting, which reportedly lasted nearly three hours, focused less on football stats and more on culture, development, and Bronaugh’s future on and off the field. “Coach Norvell laid it all out,” the source said. “Not just the plan for CJ at FSU, but how they view him as a leader in this class and someone who can elevate the program.”
From Nebraska Star Recruit to FSU’s Defensive Future
Bronaugh’s initial commitment to Nebraska last fall gave the Cornhuskers one of their most impressive out-of-state recruiting victories in years. His physical style, quick recovery speed, and football IQ made him an ideal fit for Tony White’s 3-3-5 defensive scheme.
But the pull to stay in-state and join a resurgent Florida State program proved too strong.
Florida State’s defense has steadily improved under Norvell’s tenure, and Bronaugh now becomes one of the highest-rated defensive backs in their 2026 class. Sources indicate that he will be expected to compete for playing time as early as his freshman year — especially with potential early departures looming in the Seminoles’ secondary.
The Recruitment Battle Behind the Scenes
Florida State never gave up on Bronaugh, even after his pledge to Nebraska. The Seminoles made several in-home visits this spring and hosted Bronaugh on an unofficial visit earlier in the year before locking in an official visit in June. Coach Patrick Surtain Sr., a former NFL All-Pro and respected developer of secondary talent, played a crucial role in staying connected with Bronaugh and his family.
“Coach Surtain was always real with CJ,” said one family member. “He didn’t make promises — he talked about work ethic, development, and earning everything. That hit home.”
What It Means for FSU and Nebraska
For FSU, this is a big win — not just geographically, but symbolically. Keeping top Florida talent in-state is always a goal, and flipping Bronaugh from a Big Ten school sends a strong message to other recruits. It signals that Florida State is not just back in the national conversation — they’re building a roster that can compete at a playoff level.
For Nebraska, the loss stings. Bronaugh was a headliner in their 2026 class. Still, the Cornhuskers have shown recruiting resilience under Matt Rhule and will likely pivot to other high-upside prospects.
Final Word
CJ Bronaugh’s flip to Florida State is now the talk of the 2026 recruiting cycle. With a commitment expected to be made official soon, the Seminoles continue to build momentum on the trail — and their secondary just got a whole lot better.
