CJ Montes Decommits from Florida A&M Returns to Kent State Football
In a surprising turn of events, quarterback CJ Montes has decided not to join Florida A&M University (FAMU) for the 2025 season and will instead return to Kent State University. This decision comes less than two weeks after Montes announced his commitment to the Rattlers, a move that had generated significant excitement among FAMU fans.
A Promising Talent
Montes began his collegiate career at the University of New Mexico before transferring to Fordham University. During the 2023 season at Fordham, he showcased his skills by completing 64% of his passes for 2,997 yards, 26 touchdowns, and only one interception. His outstanding performance earned him Second-Team All-Patriot League honors and recognition as a Walter Payton Award finalist. Unfortunately, his 2024 season was cut short due to a lower-body injury sustained in the third game against Stony Brook. Despite the setback, Montes completed 34 of 44 passes for 333 yards and a touchdown in those three games.
The Decision to Return
After entering the transfer portal, Montes initially committed to Kent State. However, following a coaching change at Kent State, he shifted his commitment to Florida A&M. Now, in an unexpected reversal, Montes has chosen to return to Kent State, where he had participated in spring practices.
Impact on Florida A&M
CJ Montes Decommits from Florida A&M Returns to Kent State Football
Montes’ decommitment leaves Florida A&M’s quarterback room with several options, including Traven Green, Tyler Jefferson, Bryson Martin, Roman Purcell, RJ Mayes, and recent Toledo transfer RJ Johnson III. The Rattlers are seeking a new leader under center following the departure of Daniel Richardson, who helped guide the team to recent SWAC success. Backup quarterback Junior Muratovic has also entered the transfer portal, further emphasizing the need for a solid quarterback choice.
Florida A&M is set to open its 2025 season against the Howard Bison on August 30 at the Orange Blossom Classic in Miami Gardens’ Hard Rock Stadium. The Rattlers will need to solidify their quarterback position to maintain their competitive edge in the SWAC.
