Florida State is adding depth to its offensive line after a season in which the group was banged up from week to week. The Seminoles have a veteran unit returning to Tallahassee, but there is a clear need for depth if the coaching staff is to keep things together for a long run.
On Saturday, FSU added another piece to the puzzle when Florida offensive line transfer Richie Leonard IV committed to the program. Leonard IV, a graduate transfer with one season of eligibility remaining, brings a wealth of experience to the Gators, having started all 12 games at left guard in 2023.
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The Florida native spent four years in Gainesville under former head coach Dan Mullen and current head coach Billy Napier. He appeared in 31 games, making 14 starts, and completed his bachelor’s degree over the summer. Leonard IV played 775 offensive snaps this season, nearly doubling his previous total.
Leonard IV is expected to contribute on the interior for Florida State. After losing starting guards D’Mitri Emmanuel and Casey Roddick, the Seminoles will be able to rotate Keiondre Jones, Terrence Ferguson II, Darius Washington, and Leonard IV at the position.
According to 247Sports, the 6-foot-2, 320-pound offensive lineman was ranked as the No. 770 overall prospect, the No. 48 OG, and the No. 102 recruit in Florida for the 2020 class.
Leonard joins redshirt seniors Darius Washington, Jeremiah Byers, Maurice Smith, Robert Scott, Keiondre Jones, Bryson Estes, Terrence Ferguson II, Jaylen Early, Julian Armella, Lucas Simmons, and Andre’ Otto, among others.
Leonard is the Seminoles’ 13th transfer since December. The program has also added former Georgia defensive end Marvin Jones Jr, former Oregon State/Clemson quarterback DJ Uiagalelei, and former LSU wide receiver
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