Florida State’s football future just got a serious boost - and it starts in the trenches. The Desir twins, two of the most dominant forces on the defensive line, are officially returning to Tallahassee for the 2026 season.
That’s a major win for a Seminoles defense that’s looking to reload, not rebuild. With one All-American already locked in, FSU’s front four is shaping up to be one of the most formidable in the ACC - if not the entire country.
But that’s just the beginning. The Seminoles’ 2026 transfer portal haul was officially unveiled, and it’s clear the coaching staff wasn’t messing around. Among the newcomers: offensive tackle Xavier Chaplin, a big-bodied anchor who brings instant stability to the line; edge rusher Rylan Kennedy, whose burst off the edge is going to give ACC quarterbacks nightmares; and quarterback Ashton Daniels, a dynamic dual-threat option who adds depth and intrigue to the QB room.
With the portal now officially closed, the dust has settled - and Florida State looks like one of the big winners. The roster’s been reloaded across the board, and there's a clear sense of direction heading into spring ball.
Looking back, it’s hard not to reflect on how far this program has come. Nearly 33 years ago, Florida State captured its first national championship.
Hall of Famer Derrick Brooks recently sat down with Freddie Stevenson on his podcast to relive that unforgettable season. One of the highlights?
Brooks shared how the team bounced back after a tough loss to Notre Dame - and how they all watched Boston College take down the Irish, a result that catapulted FSU back into the national title conversation. It's the kind of story that reminds you just how much heart and resilience this program has always had.
And the pipeline of talent coming into Tallahassee isn’t slowing down. Southern Miss linebacker Chris Jones, who had originally committed to Ole Miss, is flipping the script and heading to Florida State instead.
He’s not coming alone - UNC linebacker Mikai Gbayor is also making the move, pending a waiver approval for his final year of eligibility. If cleared, Gbayor brings experience and toughness to a linebacker corps that just got a lot deeper.
On the diamond, there’s plenty to be excited about too. Isabella Torres continues to set the standard in college softball - she’s not just the best shortstop in the game, she’s a Seminole. Her glove, her bat, her leadership - Torres is the kind of player who can carry a team deep into postseason play.
FSU Baseball, meanwhile, is entering a new era. The 2026 squad will look very different, especially on the mound.
With 13 new pitchers joining the roster, the coaching staff will have a lot of fresh arms to work with. The infield and outfield also saw some key departures, but the biggest transformation is clearly in the bullpen.
The season opener is just weeks away, and until then, the team is staying sharp - and giving back. Between practices, FSU Baseball is making time to pay it forward in the community, a reminder that the program’s culture is about more than just wins and losses.
And in the pros, Jameis Winston is still delivering - not just on the field, but with the mic. The former Seminole had a laugh-out-loud moment recently, sharing a story about his “welcome to the NFL” experience. Classic Jameis - always unfiltered, always entertaining.
From the past to the present, and into the future, Florida State is showing why it remains one of the most compelling programs in college sports. Whether it’s football, baseball, softball, or the pros - the Seminole legacy is alive and well.
