Florida State’s football program kicked off its preseason camp on July 29, 2026, marking the start of an 18‑practice stretch that will shape the team’s direction under second‑year head coach Mike Norvell. After back‑to‑back seasons that delivered a 7‑17 record, Norvell is under intense scrutiny to prove that the Seminoles can compete in the ACC and secure a bowl berth.
Quarterback carousel
The most watched competition is at quarterback, where transfer Ashton Daniels has been named the starter. Daniels, who previously struggled with deep‑ball accuracy — completing just 29 % of passes over 20 yards — will be tasked with reviving a passing attack that has been stagnant.
Supporting him will be a receiving corps that features veterans Duce Robinson, Micahi Danzy, Jayvan Boggs, Devin Carter and Jasen Lopez, all looking to build chemistry early.
Line of scrimmage overhaul
The offensive line has been completely reshaped through the transfer portal, bringing in Xavier Chaplin, Baydn Welch‑Joine and Nate Pabst as the leading candidates for starting spots.
On defense, coordinator Tony White is emphasizing a fix to the linebacker coverage issues that plagued the team last year. The defensive line will be anchored by brothers Darryll and Mandrell Desir, who are expected to elevate their play.
The secondary also receives a boost from the return of Ja'Bril Rawls and Ashlynd Barker, plus the addition of Duke transfer safety Ma'Khi Jones, adding depth and experience.
Schedule and stakes
The Seminoles open the season against New Mexico State on August 29, then face a gauntlet of marquee matchups against Alabama, Miami and Clemson later in the year, making early cohesion essential.
If the team can gel quickly, Norvell’s vision of a more balanced, aggressive offense could finally translate into wins, but the pressure will only intensify as the schedule unfolds.