TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida State’s head coach, Mike Norvell, has had a clear view of quarterback Thomas Castellanos over the past two seasons, particularly during their encounters on the field. Norvell humorously noted that Castellanos may have contributed to some of his gray hairs but described him as an exceptional talent and a delightful individual. He believes Castellanos stands out as one of the most exciting players in college football.
After spending the last two seasons playing against Florida State, Castellanos made the decision to join the Seminoles, signing with the team in mid-December. He held his initial press conference recently, expressing confidence in his abilities as a quarterback. “I would say 2023 and 2024 helped me prove that I can play quarterback and play quarterback here,” Castellanos commented, adding that he feels everything has fallen into place perfectly for him as he embarks on this new chapter.
This transition is significant for both Castellanos and the Seminoles, who are eager to revitalize their programs following lackluster seasons. In mid-November, Castellanos departed Boston College after losing his starting position to Grayson James, reflecting on his experience by stating, “I would just say unfortunately things didn’t happen the way I wanted them to happen. But that’s past me now.” He is now focused on embracing his role at Florida State, where he sees potential for something extraordinary.
Last season, the Seminoles recorded their worst performance in half a century, finishing with a disappointing 2-10 record. In response, Norvell has made considerable alterations to the coaching staff, bringing in new assistants and utilizing the transfer portal to sign 16 new players to bolster the team’s chances for improvement. Castellanos is seen as one of the most pivotal additions, having hailed from Waycross, Georgia, just a few hours from Tallahassee, where he has always aspired to play.
His past experiences include a brief time at UCF under coach Gus Malzahn, where Castellanos had limited opportunities in 2022, throwing only 16 passes across five games before seeking a starting role at Boston College. His tenure with the Eagles featured ups and downs, displaying his capabilities as a runner and a passer. In 2023, he struggled with turnovers, accumulating 14 interceptions against 15 touchdown passes while rushing for 1,113 yards. However, in the following year with Bill O’Brien as his coach, Castellanos transitioned into a pocket passer, accounting for 18 touchdowns with just five interceptions in eight games, including performing well against the Seminoles last September.
Castellanos is regarded as a prime fit for Malzahn’s high-tempo, explosive offensive scheme, and he fondly reminisced about his time working with the coach. “A great leader, great coach,” he remarked, expressing eagerness to reunite with Malzahn and be part of an offense aimed at making big plays.
Demonstrating confidence in Florida State’s direction, Castellanos expressed excitement about contributing to the team’s resurgence. “I know what kind of excitement this fan base and this community brings just by even playing here or watching,” Castellanos noted, emphasizing his desire to be part of a football-loving community and to return closer to his roots.
Overall, Castellanos appears poised to take on a significant role in revitalizing the Florida State football program and is eager to leave his mark in the process.
