Former Troy OL Paul Bowling commits to Florida State

Former Troy offensive lineman Paul Bowling has committed to Florida State, according to On3’s Chad Simmons. Multiple power conference programs were after Bowling’s signature out of the NCAA transfer portal. But head coach Mike Norvell was able to win out, adding a big piece to the 2026 roster.

Georgia Tech and North Carolina were two from the ACC recruiting Bowling. Kansas State threw its hat into the ring, as did UConn.

Bowling comes off the board as a three-star prospect, per the On3 Industry Transfer Portal Rankings. He is the No. 1,958-ranked player to enter this cycle. Interior offensive line is where Bowling will spend his time, coming in at No. 155 at the position.

Troy deployed Bowling in multiple spots during the 2025 season. Twelve games were started, nine of which came at center. However, Bowling did some action on the left side of the offensive line as a guard. Some history comes there, being the first true freshman to start at center in Troy history. He was, additionally, only the second ever on the offensive line. Both of those are according to Bowling’s official roster bio at Troy.

Moving forward, Position versatility appears to be there for Bowling. You have to assume it’s something Florida State is going to love.

“For a true freshman to make his first start in a game against a good defense, he graded out very well,” Troy head coach Gerad Parker said of Bowling after a win over Nicholls. “There were plenty of signs competing and playing at a high level.”

Another positive to signing Bowling is his eligibility. At least three years remain for him after impressing in his true freshman campaign at Troy. Florida State will feel like they have somebody who can potentially play right away, while projecting as a multi-year guy.

Florida State already has its presumed quarterback for the 2026 season. Ashton Daniels announced his commitment to the program, being another signal-caller out of the transfer portal for Norvell. Protecting Daniels immediately became priority No. 1, another area they plan to build from the outside.

Bowling becomes the third offensive lineman to pledge to Florida State. So far, a nice haul for the Seminoles.

To keep up with the latest players on the move, check out On3’s Transfer Portal wire. The On3 Transfer Portal Instagram account and Twitter account are excellent resources to stay up to date with the latest moves.