Introduction
In the high-stakes world of college football, few players generate as much intrigue as Squirrel White. A dynamic wide receiver with explosiveness in his route running and playmaking ability, White has become a name to watch since transferring to Florida State University (FSU). In this article, we dig deeper—uncovering his true identity, career statistics, NIL prospects, health status, and his debut with the Seminoles.
Real Name & Early Life
Full Name and Nickname Origins
While “Squirrel White” is the name fans know, his legal name is Marquarius Malik White.
How did he get the nickname “Squirrel”? The story is quaint. When Marquarius was an infant, his great-grandmother observed how he seemed to mimic a squirrel’s movement in her garden. As the squirrel moved, he would twitch or move, too. She began calling him “Squirrel,” and the name stuck ever since.
High School and Recruiting
White attended Clay-Chalkville High School in Alabama (Pinson / Clay, Alabama). During his senior season, he posted 49 receptions for 1,162 yards and 16 total touchdowns (with 16 of those being receiving).
He was named first-team All–South Metro and led his high school to a perfect 15–0 season and the AHSAA 6A state championship.
On the recruiting front, he was rated a 4-star prospect and ranked as the No. 7 overall player in Alabama by On3.com
He committed to the University of Tennessee, choosing the Volunteers over several Power 5 offers.
College Beginnings at Tennessee
White enrolled early at Tennessee and began seeing playing time as a true freshman in 2022.
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In 2022, he played in 12 games and recorded 30 receptions for 481 yards and 2 touchdowns.
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He showed his big-play potential with multiple long receptions (40+ yards) and a performance of 108 receiving yards in the 2022 Orange Bowl vs. Clemson.
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In 2023, he emerged as a leading receiver for Tennessee, catching 67 passes for 803 yards and 2 touchdowns.
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In 2024, he continued contributing, finishing with 34 receptions for 381 yards and 2 touchdowns, while also returning punts.
By the end of his Tennessee tenure, he had totaled 131 receptions, 1,665 receiving yards, and 6 touchdowns over three seasons.
These performances placed him among the top in Tennessee’s history—his 131 catches ranked seventh all-time in school history.
Career Statistics: Tennessee + FSU
Below is a breakdown of his career numbers and his early output at FSU.
Tennessee Career (2022–2024)
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Total Receptions: 131
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Total Receiving Yards: 1,665
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Receiving Touchdowns: 6
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Long Gains: 12 career catches of 30+ yards, 10 of 40+ yards, 6 of 50+ yards, 3 of 60+ yards
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100-yards games: 5 career games over 100 receiving yards.
Year by year:
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2022: 30 rec, 481 yds, 2 TD
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2023: 67 rec, 803 yds, 2 TD
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2024: 34 rec, 381 yds, 2 TD
Early FSU Stats (2025 Season to Date)
After transferring to FSU for the 2025 season, White has begun adding to his totals:
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Receptions: 4
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Receiving Yards: 52 (average ~13.0 Y/R)
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Touchdowns: 0 thus far
In his more recent performances, he had 2 receptions for 5 yards against Virginia.
Thus far, he hasn’t yet found the end zone at FSU, but that’s not unusual early in a season after switching programs.
NIL Prospects and Deal Status
One question many fans and media observers ask: Does Squirrel White have a name, image, and likeness (NIL) deal? As of now, there is no public, verified record that White has secured a major NIL deal. A few points to consider:
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Given his profile, production, and transfer status, he is an attractive prospect for local and national sponsors.
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Many players in similar positions negotiate NIL deals with apparel brands, local businesses, or regional sponsors.
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However, I did not find any credible source confirming a signed or disclosed NIL contract for White as of this writing (mid-2025).
That said, it would not be surprising if a deal emerges during the 2025 season, especially if he has standout performances at FSU.
Health Update
Player health is always a critical factor, and for White, there have been a few concerns and developments in 2025.
Thumb / Hand Injury
During a game (for FSU) in which he also returned punts, White sustained what appeared to be a thumb injury (or wrist/hand).
Coach Mike Norvell offered a positive update, noting that nothing emerging from that game seemed long-term. He expressed optimism about White’s status and recovery.
Field Storm Incident at Virginia
One of the more alarming incidents occurred after a game versus Virginia. The field was stormed by fans rushing onto the turf immediately after the final whistle, creating chaotic conditions. A viral video showed White in the midst of the melee, leading to speculation and rumors about his well-being.
Initial social media posts claimed worse, but these were false. Reliable reports clarified that White was able to walk away under his own power and did not appear seriously injured.
Still, the situation was tense, and fans understandably worried. The official health status did not indicate any major injuries from that event.
Current Outlook
As of the latest updates:
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White is not considered a long-term injury risk from the thumb incident.
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There has been no public indication of further complications following the field storm.
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He returned to practice and is expected to be available for upcoming games.
Overall, while injuries always demand vigilance, the current health outlook for White is positive.
FSU Transfer & Debut
Transfer to Florida State
In January 2025, White officially committed to Florida State University (FSU), entering the Seminoles’ transfer portal class.
FSU coaches and staff saw his production, speed, and experience in the SEC as valuable additions to their receiving corps.
Debut and Early Moments
White made his FSU debut in a highly-watched season opener vs. No. 8 Alabama.
Although it was a new system and environment, his presence was immediately felt. He brings a track record of big-play ability and competitive experience.
In that debut and subsequent games, he began to log catches, gaining early chemistry with the FSU quarterbacks and integrating into the Seminoles’ offense.
Expectations and Role at FSU
At FSU, the expectations are high:
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He is projected to play a leading receiver role, anchoring the passing game.
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His experience—especially in high-pressure games and postseason contests at Tennessee—gives him an edge in leadership and game awareness.
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The Seminoles likely intend to use him in multiple schemes, including deep routes, slot work, and perhaps in return duties, similar to his Tennessee usage.
His early stats already show modest contributions, but the ceiling is high given his past performance and athletic traits.
Strengths, Areas to Watch, and Future Outlook
Key Strengths
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Explosiveness – White has consistently made long receptions and shown the ability to break away from defenders.
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Route Running and Instincts – He demonstrates savvy in separating from coverage, especially in slot and intermediate routes.
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Big-Play Capability – Countless 40–60 yard catches in his Tennessee career attest to his vertical threat.
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Experience – Having played in the SEC and postseason games, he brings maturity and composure to FSU.
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Versatility – His usage in punt returns and multiple receiving roles helps his value.
Challenges / Areas of Focus
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Injury risk: As with all receivers, especially with physical play and return duties, health is always a concern.
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Chemistry in new offense: Transitioning to FSU’s playbook and building trust with its quarterbacks will take time.
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Touchdown production: While he has had touchdowns in his past, he’ll need to push into the end zone consistently at FSU.
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Consistency: Delivering week-to-week performances, not just flashes, will define his success at FSU.
Future Outlook
If White can stay healthy and adapt quickly, he is well-poised to become one of FSU’s top offensive weapons in 2025. A breakout season could also elevate his prospects for a professional career, as scouts will likely track his athletic profile and production.
His NIL potential may materialize in tandem with strong performances. Even without a public deal today, his name recognition, especially after key games, will draw attention from brands and sponsors.
Conclusion
Marquarius Malik “Squirrel” White is more than just a nickname or highlight reel. He is a proven playmaker, now carrying that pedigree into his final collegiate chapter at Florida State. His real name roots, combined with his dynamic stats, make him a compelling figure in college football.
As the 2025 season unfolds, many eyes will be on how he recaptures the magic he displayed at Tennessee, how he overcomes health challenges, and whether he can elevate FSU’s offense. Keep tabs on his performances, health updates, and potential NIL developments—this is a player whose journey is still very much in motion.
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