TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Coach Mike Norvell has dedicated several years to meticulously rebuilding the Florida State football program, and last season, he successfully transformed the Seminoles into a competitive team. With a strategic approach that involved recruiting gifted transfers, securing victories, and enhancing the program’s visibility, Florida State seemed well-positioned to attract many of the state’s elite talent. The 2023 season appeared promising as the Seminoles completed their regular schedule without a loss and clinched the Atlantic Coast Conference championship.
However, the current recruiting efforts are facing significant setbacks, mirroring some of the struggles experienced on the field over the last few months. Florida State (1-9), deemed one of the biggest letdowns in college football this year, has lost nearly as many recruits as their win tally for the 2024 season. The recruiting class has dwindled to just 11 commitments following offensive lineman Daniel Pierre Louis’s decision to switch to Florida, a move influenced by watching the Gators upset LSU and the recent firing of three of Norvell’s assistants, including offensive coordinator and offensive line coach Alex Atkins.
Additionally, the Seminoles recently experienced the departure of four-star quarterback Tramell Jones, who also opted for Florida. Alongside him, defensive end Javion Hilson and receivers CJ Wiley and Daylan McCutcheon followed suit, leaving after the dismissals of defensive coordinator Adam Fuller and receivers coach Ron Dugans.
“It’s challenging for these young athletes, but they recognize the opportunities that lie ahead,” Norvell stated. “The potential for success remains unchanged, and it’s important for me to articulate the vision of what we aspire to achieve. Everyone is aware of the expectations.”
Recruits initially saw Florida State as an ascending program likely to contend for a spot in the College Football Playoff. However, the reality is starkly different, as the Seminoles currently sit at the bottom of the Atlantic Coast Conference, heading into a home game against lower-division Charleston Southern (1-9). Notably, their recruiting class has no commitments at the quarterback or receiver positions, crucial areas in need of impactful talent.
Even with the early commitments from four offensive linemen, doubts linger about how many will remain committed with Atkins no longer in the fold. Historically, Norvell has secured at least 17 high school signings for each of his first five classes in Tallahassee. However, the upcoming early signing period set for December 4 raises concerns about achieving a similar figure this year. Any decline in both quantity and quality within the recruiting class could have lasting ramifications for the program, impacting not just the 2025 season but the years that follow.
As Norvell has devoted considerable time during the bye week to interviewing potential candidates for his three staff openings, Florida State’s current commitments and prospective targets are left in uncertainty regarding who their coordinators will be by signing day.
Looking ahead, Norvell may once again need to tap into the transfer portal to seek both production and leadership. While he has found success in that arena previously, the offseason saw some shortcomings in that area as well. Regardless of the eventual makeup of the roster, Norvell emphasized that it’s more complex than simply bringing in assistants who have reputations as effective recruiters.
“You have to cultivate relationships, and there’s also a necessary focus on development, along with a critical evaluation process,” Norvell explained. “Ensuring that we attract the right fit in terms of coaches and players is key for us to progress in all facets.”