Crean Lutheran (Calif.) defensive lineman James “Tank” Carrington was a committed Florida State recruit who seemed fully locked in less than two months ago. Carrington, a three-star recruit ranked among the top 50 defensive linemen nationally by Rivals, had felt the connection with the Seminoles staff. In a recent interview with Noles247, Carrington shared, “I was always in contact with Coach Meech and Coach Odell throughout most of my recruiting.” He also made it clear at the time, “I’m done with my recruitment process. I’m 100% locked in.” For many, it seemed his future was set in stone with the Seminoles. Well, now the tables have turned.
On Thursday, Carrington shocked the FSU community by announcing his decision to decommit. Via social media, he wrote, “Want to Thank Florida State and The Awesome Coaching Staff For Giving me The Opportunity. I’ve Decided to Decommit From FSU. Much Respect to Everyone There Who Believed in me Throughout my Journey. #GodsPlan.” This abrupt U-turn marks a complete 180 from the firm commitment he made just two months prior on June 16, reopening his recruitment and putting his future back on the table.
I Want to Thank Florida State and The Awesome Coaching Staff for Giving me The Opportunity. I’ve Decided to Decommit From FSU. Much Respect to Everyone There Who Believed in me Throughout my Journey. #GodsPlan
— James “TANK” Carrington (@James_BigTank) August 14, 2025
According to multiple sources familiar with Carrington’s recruitment, Oklahoma is emerging as the frontrunner to land the talented defensive lineman. The Sooners now hold the country’s No. 21-ranked 2026 recruiting class after recently securing three-star edge rusher Jake Kreul. Carrington, a 6-foot-2, 240-pound prospect, appears ready to join that strong class.
Texas A&M has also shown interest, but the momentum clearly favors Oklahoma, which is also courting another elite defensive line target, T-Ron Richardson, in a tight battle with Virginia Tech. With crunch time approaching, Carrington’s next move could give a sizable boost to Oklahoma’s front seven in the upcoming recruiting cycle.
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