TALLAHASSEE — It’s been an eventful offseason for 5-star quarterback and current Florida State pledge Malik Henry.
He’s changed his address, moving from California to Florida powerhouse IMG Academy, and he earned MVP honors at the Atlanta Nike Opening Regional camp last month—which also resulted in him garnering an invitation to The Opening.
Now, Henry has more news that will undoubtedly excite Seminoles fans.
“I’m graduating early, so in a few months, I’ll officially be a Seminole,” Henry told Bleacher Report.
Henry confirmed those plans to Bleacher Report via text on April 8.
Florida State is seeking to replace Jameis Winston this fall, but Henry could eventually be the long-term answer for Jimbo Fisher’s club moving forward.
The 6’3″, 180-pounder is the nation’s No. 9 player overall, the second-best pro-style passer in the country and the crown jewel of FSU’s top-rated recruiting class.
Getting him on campus early is sure to help him get adjusted to Fisher’s offense and make the transition to the college level.
Henry—who is also a standout baseball player—has been busy adjusting to his new home since he arrived at IMG. In fact, he’s yet to make it up to Tallahassee since he committed to the Seminoles last November.
However, according to Chris Nee of Noles247, that will change this weekend, as he’s set to be part of a loaded visitor list heading to Tallahassee for FSU’s spring game.
Accompanying him on that trip will be 4-star tight end and fellow new IMG product and FSU pledge Isaac Nauta.
Henry notes that he and Nauta, who is his roommate at IMG, have grown particularly close. The two have been working to develop a chemistry that Henry hopes will carry over to the next level.
His performance in Atlanta was one that Henry said is a reflection of the work he’s put in over the offseason.
“I just want to go out there everyday and work hard to prove that I’m the best quarterback in the nation,” Henry said. “That’s what I look at myself as. It’s not me being cocky, either. That’s just the confidence I carry within myself. I’m very confident in my game. When I put my mind to something, I’m going to do it.”
Henry said that he also remains in contact with Fisher and tight ends coach Tim Brewster. In particular, Fisher told him to enjoy his last few months on the prep level before he arrives in Tallahassee.
“He was just telling me to enjoy my senior season and enjoy the time with my friends in high school,” Henry said. “He also wants me to build that chemistry with Isaac since he’s coming up there with me for sure. Otherwise, just have fun with it.”
Bleacher Report
