Florida State’s Wide Receiver Room: A Bright Spot Amid Transition - And a Key Piece of the 2026 Puzzle
Florida State is already knee-deep in its offseason after wrapping up a disappointing 5-7 campaign - the second straight losing season under Mike Norvell. That kind of skid naturally triggered some internal conversations about the future of the program, including an exploration of moving on from Norvell altogether. But ultimately, FSU chose continuity over upheaval, sticking with its head coach and betting on a turnaround.
Now, the focus shifts to the rebuild. With the Transfer Portal set to open Jan. 2-16, it’s time to take a closer look at where the Seminoles stand position-by-position. Today, we’re diving into one of the more intriguing areas of the roster: the wide receiver room - a group that quietly delivered in 2025 despite instability at quarterback.
Was It Good Last Season?
Yes - and that might even be underselling it.
The wide receiver unit was one of the more consistent and dynamic groups on the roster. Despite the offense’s overall struggles, the receivers held their own and, at times, carried the load.
Duce Robinson, in particular, was a revelation. He cracked the Top 10 nationally in both receiving yards (1,081) and yards per catch (19.3), showcasing not just volume but explosiveness.
He was the go-to guy, and he played like it every week.
Micahi Danzy added a spark of his own. While his performance had its ups and downs, the highs were electric.
He racked up 571 receiving yards and finished third in the country in yards per catch (21.1). That kind of vertical threat is rare - especially from a player still finding his footing.
Then there was Lawayne McCoy, who battled back from an early-season injury and closed the year strong, averaging 44.4 receiving yards per game down the stretch. He brought a steady presence and rounded out a trio that gave FSU real firepower when healthy.
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing.
Squirrel White, a veteran transfer, dealt with injuries all year and managed just five catches - though one of them was a big one against Alabama in the opener. Jayvan Boggs, a freshman, had a quiet debut season with only 103 yards. That’s understandable for a first-year player, but White’s limited impact was more of a letdown given his experience.
Tight End Production: Solid, Not Spectacular
At tight end, transfer Randy Pittman gave FSU a little bit of everything. His numbers weren’t eye-popping - 23 catches for 208 yards and two touchdowns, plus a rushing score and even a passing TD - but he brought effort and versatility. He was a glue guy in a group that needed stability.
Markeston Douglas served as the primary blocking tight end. He did his job, though his role was limited to the trenches. Landen Thomas, a freshman with promise, saw his snap count drop from last season and never quite found his rhythm in the offense.
Who’s Back for 2026 - And What’s the Outlook?
That’s still a bit of a wait-and-see situation, but the early signs are encouraging.
FSU’s top three receivers - Robinson, Danzy, and McCoy - all have eligibility remaining. There’s been some buzz that Robinson could return, and if that happens, this group instantly becomes one of the most dangerous in the ACC. Combine that with the expected return of Danzy and McCoy, plus the continued development of Boggs, and you’ve got a strong nucleus to build around.
At tight end, both Pittman and Thomas are eligible to return, and the staff remains high on Chase Loftin, who flashed early in the year before being sidelined with a nagging injury. If healthy, Loftin could give the offense a big-bodied target with receiver-like skills - a matchup problem waiting to happen.
Transfer Portal Needs: Moderate, But Watch Robinson
Right now, the portal priority for this group sits around a 5 out of 10 - a mid-level need. That number could climb quickly if Robinson decides to move on. Replacing a WR1 with his production and presence isn’t easy, and FSU would likely need to target a big-bodied receiver to fill that void.
Even if Robinson stays, there’s some internal talk about adding another high-end receiver to double down on a strength. That’s more of a luxury than a necessity, especially with other areas of the roster needing attention, but it’s something to watch.
One clear need? A blocking tight end. That role was filled by committee last season, and adding a physical presence at the line of scrimmage could help both the run game and pass protection - especially if FSU wants to get back to a more balanced offensive identity.
Final Thoughts
The wide receiver room was one of the few bright spots in an otherwise frustrating season for Florida State. With the right pieces returning - and a couple of smart additions via the portal - this group could be a real strength in 2026. The big question is whether the quarterback play can rise to meet the talent on the outside.
If it does, and if Robinson returns, FSU’s offense might just have the firepower to flip the script next fall.