When Corbyn Fordham committed to Ohio State last November, the Jacksonville (Fla.) Bolles School tight end did so just months before the Buckeyes captured a national championship. He saw history, believed in the fit for his game, and built strong relationships in Columbus.

But the three-star prospect is also a Florida State legacy, and the Seminoles never stopped pushing. After taking some time to think about his decision, Fordham flipped his commitment from Ohio State to Florida State, following in the footsteps of his father, former Seminole offensive lineman Todd Fordham.

“Florida State has been on me from the beginning,” Fordham told Rivals. “It has been a process, but they came in, they came on strong, and I like where they are heading. Coach Norvell is bringing the team back. They made some coaching changes, they put the work in, and they are bouncing back.”

Fordham cited both faith and family in making the difficult decision.

“This was a tough decision and something I have been praying about. God told me staying close to home was best for me. Ohio State is a great program, they are one of the best, and I love the coaches, but after praying about it, staying close to home and going to Florida State is best for me.”

The opportunity to carry on his father’s legacy added even more weight to the move.

“My dad played there, and that is big for me,” Fordham said. “Carrying his name will help me grow. I like how they use players and play the guys who work. I know players there, I talk to players there, and it’s true how they play the guys that put in the work. Coach Norvell is a great coach who can develop kids and put Florida State in competition for championships. I believe in what coach Norvell is doing.”

Fordham becomes another in-state win for Norvell and his staff, keeping one of Florida’s most respected programs stocked with homegrown talent.