FSU football’s Duce Robinson talks family history with UF rivalry
FSU football’s Duce Robinson talks family history with UF rivalry
Florida State receiver Duce Robinson is deciding whether to return for his senior year or enter the 2026 NFL Draft.Robinson led the ACC with 1,074 receiving yards and earned first-team All-ACC honors in his first season at FSU.Staying at FSU could further boost his draft stock, especially if quarterback Tommy Castellanos returns.Robinson’s physical traits and strong performance make him a potential first-round pick if he declares for the NFL Draft.
Duce Robinson faces a pivotal choice. Return to Florida State for his senior season or enter the 2026 NFL Draft.
Robinson is eligible to turn professional after playing one season at FSU and two at USC. Also, because he is an underclassman, he has until Jan. 15 to declare for the NFL Draft.
Despite Florida State’s 5-7 finish, Robinson’s transfer to FSU elevated his game. He led the ACC with 56 receptions for 1,074 yards and six touchdowns, earning first-team All-ACC honors.
Robinson became the first Seminole receiver to surpass 1,000 yards in a season since 2019, marking the 14th time in program history and making him the 11th different player to achieve the milestone.
Just two days before FSU’s rivalry game against Florida, Robinson was asked about his future.
His response?
He’s still undecided.
“After the season, I’ll be able to tell you guys more, but right now, I’m just trying to take it day by day,” Robinson said.
Here are the possible scenarios for Robinson.
Why Duce Robinson should stay at FSU
Having Robinson back for another year would be a massive win for the Seminoles. He’s not only a reliable target but also a team leader. His size, elite catch radius, and ability to dominate contested catches make him invaluable for next season.
After a 1,000-yard campaign and a Biletnikoff Award semifinalist nod, Robinson could enter 2026 as one of the nation’s top wide receivers and potentially post even better numbers in his second year at FSU.
One key factor in his decision will be the quarterback situation. If the NCAA grants Tommy Castellanos a fifth year of eligibility, that could sway Robinson to stay, given their strong chemistry.
Even if Castellanos departs, Robinson could still boost his draft stock with a new transfer QB or one of FSU’s young talents—Kevin Sperry, Brock Glenn, or Jaylen King. His ability to thrive regardless of who’s under center would only strengthen his NFL résumé.
Why Duce Robinson should enter the NFL Draft
Robinson could easily take his chances in the NFL—not just because of his production at FSU, but because of his physical traits that will intrigue teams in need of a big-bodied receiver.
His tape speaks for itself, and his 6-foot-6 frame and athleticism could make him one of the first five receivers selected in the 2026 draft. If invited to the Senior Bowl and NFL Scouting Combine, Robinson would likely excel.
His maturity and intelligence off the field will also impress executives during interviews. Put it all together, and Robinson has a legitimate shot at becoming a first-round pick.
What losing Duce Robinson can mean for FSU
Losing Robinson to the NFL would be a significant blow for the Seminoles. However, it opens the door for emerging talents like Lawayne McCoy, Micahi Danzy, and Jayvan Boggs to step into larger roles in his place.
McCoy had a strong finish against Florida after he led the game with a career-best of six catches for 117 yards and a TD, finishing the year with 27 catches for 403 yards and two scores. Danzy showed promise after switching from running back to wide receiver.
He was second on the team with 571 yards and three TDs. He also added 216 rushing TDs and three rushing scores when he is utilized with jet-sweep plays. Obviously, he is still working on his consistency, but he could also take a step forward next year.
Boggs became a starter as a true freshman and showed a ton of promise after a strong fall camp. Unfortunately, his injuries kept him from even getting a small sample of his impact.
FSU also has young receivers such as Tae’shaun Gelsey, who listed at 6-foot-4, 235 pounds as a freshman, whom they feel good about long term.
Peter Holland Jr. covers Florida State athletics for the Tallahassee Democrat. Contact him via email at PHolland@Gannett.com or on X @_Da_pistol.