Florida State's special teams unit is entering fall camp with a blend of experienced transfers and unproven talent, as new coordinator Adam Scheier looks to stabilize the punter role and settle the kicker position.
Daniel Hughes, a transfer from New Mexico, has emerged as the clear favorite to become the starting punter, though Carter Jula and Ethan Post are also vying for the job.
A New Era of Special Teams
The competition extends to the placekicker slot, where Gabe Panikowski and Conor McAneney are the top candidates; McAneney's off‑field issues have left the position unsettled.
Caleb Bowers, a transfer from North Dakota State, is slated to handle long snapping duties, while Samuel Singleton Jr. brings experience as the primary kick returner.
Micahi Danzy is being considered for a returner role due to his explosiveness, and Jasen Lopez along with Devin Carter are battling for the punt returner position.
Coach Mike Norvell and the coaching staff hope the mix of stability at punter and fresh talent in the return game will translate into a noticeable improvement in field position and scoring opportunities.